Recommendations for bookshelf speakers


I hope some of you knowledgeable folks can help point me in the right direction here. I've just sold off a pair of venerable old Celestion SL600s to a friend who's setting up her own system. I've been using these for casual listening, mostly as computer monitors (YouTube mainly, and some streaming broadcast services, with very occasional forays into higher-res formats) and as musical as they are, I think it's time for something more modern and more efficient.

Well, this is where I get lost. I'd like something that approximates the Celestions' musicality, but scouring the internet for information on speakers of appropriate size and price (I can go up to about $1000 for these) just seems to muddy the waters. I'm happy to go with either used or new. A few that I've looked into but been put off by various aspects of their reviews: Monitor Audio Silver 50 and RX1, Polk Audio LSiM703 (there's a really good deal on these on Polk's website, but they're quite a bit bigger than I'd like), various models of Elac's bookshelf speakers, PSB Imagine Bs, and even a few used B&Ws, a brand I've never really liked all that much.

I'd be grateful for any suggestions you might have. There's an endless variety of speakers out there and I feel I've barely scratched the surface. Your suggestions would be gratefully received. Thanks!
cooper52
I have a pair of Celestion SL700s (stand mounted) in my bedroom. I don't plan to part with them. Ever.

That said, you should always audition speakers - and preferably at home and in situ. If your budgets can handle it, you should consider a pair of LS35a. Even today and almost regardless of the manufacturer, they represent a landmark speaker.
I've mentioned these speakers before....here it goes...wharfedale diamond 225's. They have to be heard to be believed, for just $449 I don't think they can be beat for an honest sounding audiophile speaker. A touch of warmth, non fatiguing, unbelievable bass response, crystal clear highs, and a sweet midrange. Stereophile recomended component. 
Parts Connexion has Wharferdale and Monito Audio on great discounts right now. :)

If you go wiht Wharferdale, highly recommend a cap upgrade. Totally worth spending $40 on a pair to upgrade them.
I don’t see where you mentioned your equipment setup.  I am really enjoying my ELAC Debut 6.2 bookshelf speakers with my CA Topaz SR20/ NAD 7020 and Linn Axis turntable.  
I recently bought a pair of JL Labs Focal Aria 906 speakers and I really like the sound I'm getting. They are efficient and if you look you can get them for well under $1,000. They did take some time to break in though.