In approx. 14’ x14’ room in apt: multi use area - dining/kitchen/tv-gaming…Speakers sound great at medium+ volume - they really sing - but are really muddy and not detailed at low volume.
I also agree with what others have said about the Fletcher Munson curve and possibly adding an equal-loudness contour EQ. However, in a general-purpose room like what you describe with no room treatments, loudspeakers with controlled directivity and more focused dispersion would be helpful for delivering clarity at lower levels.
I know you were looking for bookshelf speakers, but the JBL Studio 570s are a steal at $560/pair right now. Even the massive 590s just fit under your $1k budget if you can take advantage of the current sale.
The hugely popular Klipsch RP-600M would also do a great job of delivering lively dynamics and detail to your listening position at lower levels.