Exemplary active nearfield speakers under $1k?

I second the Adams.

What about Eve Audio SC204, Vanatoo T-1, NHT Superpower 2.0, Fostex PM0.4d and JRK RP8G3?

KRK RP8G3

I use small M Audio monitors in my home studio and a larger pair in my kitchen as a Sonos zone. Neither is truly an audiophile type product, but both are good performers that do yeoman's work in their respective application and IMHO represent excellent value. I preferred both to the KRK Rockit models and the Sampson models at the same (sub $500/pr) price points, FWIW.