I need advice on a good value for speakers

IMHO, the best value by far would be used stock Thiel 3.5's. They can be had for well below your max price, and out perform speakers that cost many times that max price. The only caveat is that to make them really sing, you'll probably need to take the savings and apply it towards the cost of an appropriate amplifier. The Vandersteen 2's are another excellent value choice.

I love listening to Doc Watson, Chet atkins, Les Paul, Leo Kottke on my system.

Its very live and really sounds like they are sitting in my room.

My speakers are the main reason IMHO Reference 3A De Capos really sings with acoustic music. I do use a tube amp with them and that also influences the sound.

they turn up used around 1000-1300.

Kabarkamian,
It's not precise interpretation of the advise. The prices here are for reference and any decent dealer would go for the price break even for the new equipment if there will be an interest in certain equipment. If we speak in terms of speakers It's best to buy them locally only weather it's dealer or private owner. A-gon is needed to to define best values and not overpay large amounts from the same dealer.

I agree, do not want to waste dealers time to demo BUT how else do I get get to listen to the difference between speakers? I may just buy from the dealer and have no moral dilema. I like a concrete and mortar business behind a purchase like that anyway. Good advice, much appreciated. I am definately going to try the Theil's, Vandersteen's and for sure the 3A DeCapos because I am a huge Leo Kottke fan just like Grinnell.

Dealer demo is part of their sunk cost. Besides, if they treat you well, you will refer, etc. Demo, demo...and demo!

I will second the Mirage OMD-15s. I had them, and they are fantastic floor standers. I now have the OMD-28s...which are amazing, but a bit too big for my room. I would also recommend listening to Paradigm, based on your music tastes. Audition the Studio 20's.

I ended up going with Totem Rainmakers for my winter speakers, and if you have a dealer I would recommend a listen. Pretty remarkable speakers.

Good listening!
Mot