Somewhat full range, decent low bass that near?
Whatever you do, at any near distance, especially 'in your face' as yours will be, you need to first
limit the amount of low bass the main speakers try to make, via a
crossover. Add a self-powered sub, even a small one, for the lower bass. Single
mono. Basically, some extension, unaware of it unless you turn it off. Get distorted bass out, especially when mains are 'in your face'.
For me, a true bookshelf speaker will fit on a 11-1/2" deep shelf, in a
bookcase, hopefully at seated ear level (often horizontal is best). NO PORTS,
Certainly not rear ports. How far apart? How close are you? I have a 6'
triangle,
You will have a 40" triangle. Bookshelf is too big for that short distance.
At that distance, I would want tone controls, even better L-Pads. Individual driver volume adjustment after the crossover is better than tone curves prior to the crossover).