i like the b&w 686,you can get them used for less than 250$.
i auditioned them next to the 685 who got much better reviews at the time but i prefered the 686 because they sound sweeter and less forward. i used an old arcam delta integrated with them and it was a great match ,they were ok with rotel and nad amps but nowhere near the arcam. they need at least 75wpc though they are quite small.
there are refurbished ohm walsh e2 for 400 now on their website (outlet)they have a 120 day trial! and 3 years limited warranty.you can probably get some great used kef,infinity or dynaudio bookshelves for that price as well. what amp?