Bookshelf Recommendations

@mesch: Quite true, though I must say again, what a positive experience posting this query has been. Whatever direction I go, I've no doubt that I'll select a set-up that will provide a significant improvement over my W-dale, Diamond III's. 

Moreover, the suggestions about utilizing stands--now that a dedicated listening space is available--might give them a new lease on life. For now 👂

You may laugh but if you can find a pair of av123 XLS Encore monitors for $150 to $200 have GR Research build you a point to point wiring crossover for around $300. Or order parts and put it together yourself for cheaper. Crossover is made up of alpha core foil inductors, mills resistors, sonic caps or mundorf supreme caps with a bypass cap you may be shocked all for around $500 total. It's one hell of a speaker for the money. I preferred it to the Usher tiny dancer in a lot of ways but only goes down to 50 vs ushers 40 but just very musical and smooth. If you can find one in rosewood it's a very nice looking solid box, I bought one as described pre modded on whim off eBay. If you can find a XLS Sking ninja modded everything is already done, killer cheap speaker. 

+ on Wharfdale 225. I found them much more open and dynamic and less amplifier dependent than the Totem Rainmakers. The Totem Arros were significantly better than the Rainmakers while occupying similar footprint. 

Have substantial power with the Carver m1.5t. My concern with the 225’s is low end, which from what I read is somewhat lacking, at least when compared to other offerings in that class & price-point.

I’m aware, of course, that most ALL speakers in that size range will necessarily present that shortcoming, to one degree or another.