I'm very surprised at your impression of the Vandys. I'd seriously question the setup and associated equipment if it was at a dealer. Not what I associatiate with the Vandy 2s at all, although I'm sure you heard what you heard. I'd give them another chance.
BTW, I strongly agree with Erik's recommendation above about British monitors. I just didn't think of them dammit. Go hear some Harbeths or Spendors, although you'd probably have to buy used and they probably won't be the last word in bass at your price point. But what they do right may far outweigh that for you. Also like the Dynaudio recommendation. You've got lots of good recommendations here. Hope you can go out and hear a bunch of them.
BTW, I strongly agree with Erik's recommendation above about British monitors. I just didn't think of them dammit. Go hear some Harbeths or Spendors, although you'd probably have to buy used and they probably won't be the last word in bass at your price point. But what they do right may far outweigh that for you. Also like the Dynaudio recommendation. You've got lots of good recommendations here. Hope you can go out and hear a bunch of them.