'great' bookshelf speakers for under 500?

I have the PSB Image 2B for $300 and the PSB Stratus Mini(lists for $1100, but bought used here for $480). Both are great speakers. Not sure which I like the best. The Image B25 is a slightly upgraded Image 2B and did get a rave review from Stereophile as the best speaker under$500.

Ascend Acoustics CBM-170 are a great buy.

I love my Epos ELS-3s. They're terrific in my 12x12 room.

I know it's a cliche, but the Epos ELS-3s really are one of those 'Why pay more?' breakthroughs. Delightful.

Shop for a primo condition pair that have the original parts. Watch out for parts mismatches and poor surround refoaming, etc. These speakers will deliver great bass, very good midrange, decent highs, very accurate sound, and will play almost any type of music well from classical to jazz to rock and roll with instrumentals, voice, you name it. If you outgrow them you will be able to sell them for within 10% of what you paid except for the shipping. Try Agon and eBay. One caveat: although they are considered bookshelf speakers, they want to be on small stands a half foot to a foot off the floor. While you are at it, find a vintage Marantz (2275, etc.) receiver in good shape. You might get both the speakers and the receiver for just your speaker budget.