Based on your requirements, I highly recommend trying to audition the Epos Elan or Epic series. The speakers do have a somewhat utilitarian look, but they are extremely good for their modest price.
I own a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 8s and use them with a Rogue Audio Sphinx. The MAs do have a warm treble despite being metal dome, and they do resolve a little more detail than the Epos, but the Epos are considerably more musical. I own a pair of Epos Epic 2s as well. They are such great speakers that I can't imagine ever getting rid of them. They also have better bass than many small floor standers, despite being bookshelves. EPOS speakers are rated at 4 ohm, but for practical purposes, they're closer to 6 ohms. You could probably get away with running them off the 8 ohm taps of your Cronus with no issues.