Best floorstanding speakers under $2000

You would probably get more improvement by treating the room instead of new speakers.

The very best floor-standing speaker, without a doubt, by any standard, is a used Merlin VSM

Really? How did you come to this decisive conclusion?

Aerial speakers are also the best.

Well, is the Merlin(specific model) or the Aerial(entire line)the "best"? Inquiring minds want to know!!!

I read some of the reviews, it does seem your speakers are well made for rock. I think that Zmanastronomy is right, but it sounds like you have the itch for a change, not simple improving what you already have - true? If not, room treatment is a lot of bang for your buck in improving the performance from you system -- especially in the bass. Is that a way you might want to go? Or do you really want another speaker?

My advice is get a plane ticket to Denver next Friday and spend some time at RMAF. Get a "ears on" demo and determine what works for you and your budget.

Talon Raven or Khorus, very good.
Energy Veritas 1.8 or 2.8, very, very good.
Talon are efficient, Veritas are not.
Aerial 10T's are quite good, not efficient.
Meridian DSP-5500's, good - and have amplifiers built in.

Most, if not all of these can be had for less than $2,000!

Obviously room, gear, ears, music/usage play a factor - but I don't have a problem making these suggestions. My list above is actually the order in which I would pick from the list - and 98% of folks listening to these would be extremely happy with them.

IMO - Dan