What is a good all around high quality speaker to purchase?

KLH Model 5's.....Hard to beat.

I went from B&W to Dynaudio and loved the decision. Back in the day (2000) Dynaudio was my Holy Grail. Instantly fixed the fatigue I got from B&W. Nowadays I have found Dynaudio has shifted towards a more forward sound, not bright but more forward than previous lines (this was with the Excite line). I think Evoke has been a step back in the right direction. Have never heard Contour or Confidence. 
 

Revel and Sonus Faber I would also highly recommend. I have been truly awestruck with the Revel Be line…

@onehorsepony I owned the Thiel CS3.7’s and I think you are being a bit hard on them. They are a very good speaker, though I think the drivers on them are surpassed by Beryllium and the even better Zylon (as detailed but not harsh).

This what I think is an all-round star speaker with tech that is hard to match by most builders. I own them and drive them with a CODA #16 amp.

Yamaha NS-5000PNST 3-Way Bookshelf Speakers with Stands | Hi-Fi Heaven

These are huge speakers with a beautiful piano finish. You need some volume in the room to make them work. A Thiel CS3.7 is a good guide to the room needed for the NS5000.

Do you "treat" the 6 1/2' ceiling in any way?

I'm out on speakers in your price range, but  recall dealing unsuccessfully with a low ceiling ages ago (in the early 70's).

DeKay

@onehorsepony 

I cannot make a recommendation in your price range, but I do like you sense of humor. Happy Hunting!