Recommended new speakers for under $500?

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.

Jesus...get Magneplanar base model MMG's...the mids and highs will blow all the other aforementioned speaker away IMHO. Also, depending on where you place them, the bass will be adequate to excellent regardless of their reputation of little bass that you read so often here. Good luck.