THE BEST SMALL SPEAKERS

I nominate Tannoy System 10 DMT, System 10 DMT II, or System 1000. Only the last of these is a current model, though they're all close to identical. Sold only in pro audio shops (they're professional studio monitors). Dual concentric drivers, around 93 dB sensitivity with high power handling, 42 Hz-25 kHz freq. response; approximately the dimensions you indicated; unforgivingly neutral sound; exceptional dynamics. I use the System 12 DMT (2 x 1 x 1 ft., so too big for your purposes), and am saving up for the System 15 DMT II, but unlike many smaller speakers, the 10-in. are of equal quality to the 12" and 15". Good with solid state or tubes.

B&W 805 and matching sub - matrix 800 series if you are looking for used or Nautilus if new (both sound excellent). They aren't cheap but will give you what you are looking for.

For the money, you can't beat Coincident Triumph Signatures! Give them a listen.

My current fave is the Dynaudio Countour 1.3MK.II. Punchy as all hell, with as uncolored a midrange as you'll find. Same mr/bass driver as the Totem 1 Signature, a well reputed speaker I haven't heard. Inefficient and pricey, though. Thiel CS.5 also a good choice at $1500. Two more very good ones--the new Proac Tablette 2000 and 2000 Sig. models--just use heavy stands. Thanks

Without a doubt, Acoustic Energy AE-1 Signatures. They will soundstage and image with some of the best speakers money can buy. Give them a fast high current amp and yours toes will be tapping.