Recommended new speakers for under $500?

NHT has a good choice under $500 and you can now buy direct from the factory, on line. They have a good return policy so you can decide for yourself after you hook them up to your rig. In home demo is the best way to buy.

At this price point and little extra going used has real benefits paradigm 20 gma europas sonus faber concertinos

Agree with all that has been posted here, and suggest adding EPOS ELS 8 Mini Monitor to your list.

Thanks for the suggestions guys. I'll check into them. I'm a sucker for small speakers that can throw a huge soundstage.

Second the reco for Paradigm Studio 20s. They are $800 a pair but slay rivals.