1k used speaker all rounder

I'll second Coincident, but can't think of any that you'll likely find for $1k. Superb speakers with SET (I also used 8 watt 300B's for a while), and also work brilliantly with the SS Modwright KWA 150 I'm currently using. What I found in comparing the two is that the SET amps had a much harder time pushing the pair of large bass drivers so the low end was lacking with SET, but still, the sound overall was outstanding. Your choice is going to be driven by that lower 8-watt SET requirement you listed since you'll really need efficient speakers with a relatively flat response to succeed there. Another good choice would be the long out-of-production Galante speakers, which you could find in your price range. Those work well placed back towards corners or the back wall. Very nice, and similar to Tannoy in some respects. The Galante's use a single concentric driver (which I believe is still in production). There were two models, The smaller Rhapsody and the larger Buckingham. I had the Rhapsody which would be good for small to medium sized rooms, while the Buckingham would serve medium to larger rooms better. Vintage Klipsch Heritage speakers would be a good bet, especially with some custom tweaking, but if your wife doesn't like TannoysI'm betting a Cornwall is not going to get by her either. Other options which I have limited or no exposure to, but have good reputations - Reference 3a DiCapo, and Omega single driver speakers

Look for a used pair of Cain & Cain Abbys (or super Abbys).

Coincident Conquests run $500-750. Triumphs are less if you don't mind stand mounted.

I have Tannoy Devons but they are ugly (according to 'er indoors), something similar soundwise would work, could also stretch to 2k. thx

Most affordable Tannoy are ugly, jax2's suggestion about Galante seems appropriate as I have heard they sound similar to Tannoy. I think that they use a Radian driver.