Interesting question, and I will try to be brief.
First of all, I would contact Krell to see if they will still upgrade the KRC to the KRC-HR. There is a significant difference!
Then, I would be patient and try to find a pair of used B&W800's (matrix). I think that they will fit in your budget. [The unfortunate thing is that, like the KRC, the 800's can also be greatly improved by upgrading (actively biamping with the Krell KBX, but Krell no longer makes them or the board for you speaker.)]
Disclaimer:
I own the 800's. First in the original form driven by the KSA300S and then the FPB300 (a noticeable improvement). I now have them actively biamped with the KSA for the bass and the FPB for the mid/highs.
Have fun!
Richard
First of all, I would contact Krell to see if they will still upgrade the KRC to the KRC-HR. There is a significant difference!
Then, I would be patient and try to find a pair of used B&W800's (matrix). I think that they will fit in your budget. [The unfortunate thing is that, like the KRC, the 800's can also be greatly improved by upgrading (actively biamping with the Krell KBX, but Krell no longer makes them or the board for you speaker.)]
Disclaimer:
I own the 800's. First in the original form driven by the KSA300S and then the FPB300 (a noticeable improvement). I now have them actively biamped with the KSA for the bass and the FPB for the mid/highs.
Have fun!
Richard