I have heard the Cobalts side by side with the Electra 905's. I much prefer the Electras. Although you give some of the bottom end, the electras do suprisingly well at bass. I thought the Elecras ruled over Cobalts in mids and overall clarity. I am a full-range kinda guy but between those two, i would definitly pick the electras. Also, I know you didn't inlcude them in your list, but the NHT 2.9s are close to that price range and well worth a listen. Very nice bottom end.