How do the Elac Uni-Fi UB5s compare to more expensive bookshelf speakers?

Another point to keep in mind is the cost of the stands. They tend to make a noticeable difference in the sonics so you don't want to skimp when buying a $1500 speakers.

Kalali agree, sound anchor has a good stands owner is nice....

I gave the Elac Debut 6s a long audition at home. (Long enough to piss the dealer off.) My thoughts-

Great midrange and bass. 
Very finicky about placement. 
The upper register sounded muffled. Like someone had turned on the Dolby switch. 

The last item was the dealbreaker for me. Went with the KEF Q150. Haven’t looked back. 

I notice that Elac is already on .2 for most of its models. Can’t speak to their sound. Maybe the problems have been fixed. 

You can't hear what and likewise, I can't hear what you hear. Hearing, touch and taste are almost totally subjective.  The best speakers I've ever heard are Quad 63's but that doesn't make them best does it?