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

What small, nearfield (3 feet) desktop speakers do you use or like?
I'm looking to fit out my desk with something good but not expensive.
Music tastes are varied and I don't care about deep bass. I'd rather have good mids, highs.
Spending is capped at $500 max. Open to used, new. Would power these with Adcom separates, 60wpc.
Elac? Ascend? KEF? What would you advise?

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fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,634 posts
 
That's why the self powered bi amped Vanatoos look like fitting the bill.
I have an Ascend Sierra for a center in my surround sys. Love it. Blends well with the ML Motion 2 AMT rears and front ESLs.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,381 posts
 
+1 for the. Vanatoo.  Everything you need save a source device in a compact great sounding package that is loaded with technology.  The tone controls alone will come in very handy. 
doni
366 posts
 
I’ve owned and used Vanatoos and kef ls-50’s as desktop speakers, and both are great, but I think the Kefs sound incredible nearfield.  Especially powered with class d.
glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,709 posts
 
I’ve been very happy with a PSB Alpha PS1 speaker system. I have the option small matching sub and as a whole it’s surprisingly good with great dispersion. Nicely made small and very good sound. Speakers are list $299 usd. SubSeries 100 matching sub is $249. I’ve used them with out the sub and they are very nice too 
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,381 posts
 
I’m running the kef ls50s off Class D near field in the room below where the Vanatoo are and agree 100%.  Listening as I type.  
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