Bookshelf speaker recommendations

op - If you keep high expectations but set a low budget, you might as well raise your budget and let everyone around here know who is trying to help. For example, someone suggested the SCM7, but then you said you preferred the SCM11, which is 100% higher than the budget you initially specified. I suggested lower-priced speakers, and then you were interested in SF Sonetto II that are 130% more expensive.  I'm not saying you need to agree with our recommendations—audio gear is subjective, after all—but at the very least, you should make up your mind to avoid wasting everyone's time here.

How about ATC SCM 11s. A sealed design with fantastic dynamics. Even the smaller SCM 7s might work. 

@lanx0003 My expectations is high, maybe but a better question should be asked, should I expect to get higher quality sound at a higher price tag? That is where expectations are high also.

OP, if your bar is set high, that’s great. Consider setting a higher budget to accept suggestions that meet your expectations. Push your envelope to where your point of diminishing returns lies. I went through a similar process and ultimately settled on the Buchardt S400 II, which is priced right around $2.4k. The SCM11 was also on my radar but was ruled out primarily due to its limited low-end extension. I prioritize soundstage and tonal balance with nimble bass, a full midrange, and airy highs. For me, the SCM11 falls into the restricted low-end category and wouldn’t be my cup of tea, even though it is a competent performer in the rest of the frequency spectrum.

Back then, I also asked for help from Audiogoners, but I was honest with them about my budget being around $2k. I had an initial list of choices, and Audiogoners helped me fine-tune and narrow down my options to three. The process is much more straightforward and smooth if your goals align with theirs. Don’t aim too high but settle for less—you’re wasting not only your own time but others’ as well. No offense intended, please.

No offense intended. We just happen to see different view point on the matter of what we see a budget set. I only set my budget at 1.2k because I know at that price point wither new or used is a good starting point. Can I go higher on my budget, maybe I would need to hear data to back it up. Don't get me wrong, there are speakers at a higher price tag that sound great but there are also speakers with lower budget that can sound great too. It all come down to subjective. You want a bookshelf speaker that goes low into bass region and there is nothing wrong with that. You just going to have pay the price to achieve that accomplishment. As I mention before, we have different view points of what we want in sound. I personally like speakers to roll off at around 60-70hz at -3db slope. Again no offense taken and enjoy.