Well the Quad amp is not a high current amp so you will want to have speakers with a higher nominal impedence (at least) such as 8 ohms, and a reasonably high sensitivity say 90db or more. That way you would be able to play Mr St Saens. :-)
Apart from appearance, I can't appreciate your wife's concerns, you should still consider some of the older (non SE) and larger Spendors for a more laid back response (highs are not overly emphasized) - not the last word in eithed deep or tight bass, but they have a beautify mid range, are nicely balanced, and easy to forget. Just boxes though. :-) You'd have a tough time improving on them for under $1500 used.
Apart from appearance, I can't appreciate your wife's concerns, you should still consider some of the older (non SE) and larger Spendors for a more laid back response (highs are not overly emphasized) - not the last word in eithed deep or tight bass, but they have a beautify mid range, are nicely balanced, and easy to forget. Just boxes though. :-) You'd have a tough time improving on them for under $1500 used.