I'd recommend the Silverline SR17's. Outstanding with tubes. Great bass from a small enclosure. Gorgeous finish. Utterly transparent! You should be able to find a used pair for around $1200-1500 in great shape. I don't know how they'll be in a bookshelf setting though. They are rear-ported speakers. I used to own a set and they were wonderful monitors. Do a websearch for further information and reviews on those speakers. Their site is http://www.silverlineaudio.com Can't recall the owners name, but he's very receptive to queries...give him a call with the bookshelf question.
Good luck. I grew up in small apartments in NYC so I'm familiar with the compromises you have to make. Can't imagine having kids there now though.
Good luck. I grew up in small apartments in NYC so I'm familiar with the compromises you have to make. Can't imagine having kids there now though.