Best floorstanding speakers less than $500


Any thoughts on sub-$500 floorstanders? Am I better off going with bookshelves at that price point?

Amp is a tube based Onix SP3 MKII. I can get a new pair of Wharfedale Diamond 9.6's for around $425 right now. Any thoughts? I don't have any issues with going used either!
uncledavid218
The Wharfedales are very nice for the money.TSTO sells the 9.4 for $299.They also sell the Mordaunt Short MS-914 for less than $400.I have the 902 bookshelf version (in my wife's sitting room) and they look and sound great! The MS speakers do feature a bright,clear sound from their metal dome tweeters.
It's now TSO Sound and Vision.Used to be The Stereo Trading Outlet(in Jenkintown,PA)
Check out the Energy speakers at less then 1/2 off and free shipping, these might fit your bill:

http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/reviews/542061916/energy-rc30-cherry
Thanks for the great input guys. For the price the Wharfedales look to be the best bang for the buck as far as I can tell. I'm still not sure if I'm better off with a bookshelf for the price. Any thoughts? Also the energys look great but are beyond my price range currently.