Best speakers for max. $3000?

No one should advise you on speakers. De gustibus...They all vary so much that you should get out there and listen, with your own software.

Buchardt S400

Take a look at the PSB Imagine X2T. I just bought a pair for under $1400 out the door and love them. While they're not Focals or Thiels they perform very well for the price.

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/psb-imagine-x2t-tower-loudspeaker/

No one should advise you on speakers. De gustibus...They all vary so much that you should get out there and listen, with your own software.
 

Ultimately, this is the best advice.

If you go with a factory-direct brand, investigate how they've handled past resturns - some of these company's are easy to work with, some can be a nightmare. 

Curious to know why good used is not being discussed? It is no secret I am a Klipsch fan and the reason is because there is a lot of great stuff on the used market even though they don't last long. Chorus I's and II's would work for that room size and fill it up if you wish and play any genre and if you can find them go for $900 to $1,400. Nice thing is if you decide to move on to something bigger and better like KHorns which can be found for $2,500 you get all your money back out. CF4's can be found on rare occasions and they are awesome and the last set around here went for $1,800. KLF 30's are another popular one with a great sound and run from $700 to well over $1,000. All this new stuff people mention will take  big hit if you decide in time they are not for you. The forums for all other brands is dwarfed by the Klipsch forum where you can find out anything you need for tinkering with your Klipsch speakers. Your $3,000 wont go far on new but it sure will in used.