Need recommendations on stand mount speakers

last_lemming,

I also had Vandersteen 2CEs that I loved but, after moving to a smaller (11' X 12') listening space, they didn't work out as well. I just didn't have enough distance from my listening position to the speakers to provide a proper blend of the drivers.

I was looking for a near-field solution and found it in the Kef LS50s with their coincident/coaxial drivers. The LS50s were very revealing and I was forced to do some room treatment that I had been putting off for so many years. Next up was the addition of a Rel T/5i subwoofer to fill in the bottom end that was missing when I got rid of the Vandies. All things considered, I couldn't be happier with my decision and think you would be too. 

+1 for Fritz

Rarer than rocking horse poo in USA, the Lenehan Audio ML1's (the steel plate lined ones, 2nd gen in the deeper enclosure) or ML2.
Can possibly be found on https://www.stereo.net.au/forums/forum/7-classifieds-audio/

Reference versions run cast Duelund, some lesser models have the VSF and Duelund cast resistors. I used to build them on the Gold Coast for Mike.

Any brave souls, genuinely interested I'd answer any questions on how they are actually built. Goggle them, the reviews will tell you what they are, especially Stereonet forum by members of the community, not paid off reviewers.

Love my Tekton double impact monitors $2000 and will make the KEFs sound like a clock radio

Lots of good choices.

You have to listen to the Monitor Audio Golds In this price range. They will be a hair warm and will be best with solid state amplification. IMO, if you like Vandersteen I think you will like these.

You also need to listen to the Revel Performa3 M106s. I had the M105s for years and fit my taste perfectly which is a slightly forward monitor that I had paired with neutral amplification.

You have to at least listen to the LS50s. Certainly a nice speaker but has some limitation.

I offer monitors but mine start well above your budget at $2499.  Good luck to you.