Best small, desktop speakers, $500 or under (new or used)

Lots more good suggestions. No one has tried the Ascend speakers? Hmmm.

One thing is certain — I really am hoping for a real speaker, not just a "computer speaker." It seems that's possible, but there are a number of computer speakers thrown into the mix here, so I'm not sure where the line is for people between "real" and "computer." Perhaps that's too subjective to even wonder about.

The Peachtree interest me -- however, I do I have a (somewhat older, but still $500 new) peachtree DAC.

As much as the Totem Rainmakers appeal, I did find that 14" height is just a bit big for 2-3 ft. nearfield.

The pressure is mounting for the Vanatoos; might be coming in for a serious look.

Zdac, 
I have heard the LS50w’s properly set-up and they are downright amazing.  They compete with many of the dozens of high end speakers I have owned.  I’ve owned LS50w’s.

I have never once heard, or heard about the speakers that you mentioned.  I find it strange though that you only have 2 posts... do you work for the company or you are just a satisfied customer wanting to share your experience? I will look into them a bit more.  I do hate when someone makes remarks about something they haven’t heard, and thrn I go and do it 🤷🏼

I’ve heard Vanatoos multiple times and was impressed every time.  Every one who heard them at the shows were really impressed too.  They do sound good, have ridiculous bass and play loud.  The vanatoo would also smash A2+’s.  
Remember, I bought the B2 so I’m not trying to say they are crap, they just aren’t in ghe same league at all

 Zdac, still not sold.  Looks like a lifestyle product with voice command.  My 15 year old nephew who is Apple and Alexa fan boy would buy it.

For $400 if I was looking for something like that, I’d buy a Peachtree Deepblue.  
Have you heard a Deepblue?

Another +1 for AudioEngine.