Choices for speaker 2' from back wall

I haven't heard them, but the Von Schweikert VR33s are made to be positioned close the the back wall and seem to have very positive reviews. They are only available factory-direct from VS to save cost, and they are just a little over your target price if you can stretch.

Looking at the specs they seem relatively easy to drive so your receiver should be able to drive them. It'll probably sound much better than what you're currently hearing, but the VR33s will likely reward you with significantly better sound as you upgrade other components.

Best of luck.

Dali Helicons can be used close to the wall even though they are rear ported. That is an intended feature of their design, and I have heard them 2' out. They sound fine. Otherwise, sealed designs are good, but the choices are limited.

Thanks for the advice.

The RevelF52 and Dali Helicons sound interesting. With the Revels being updated I may get to see some F52s for sale in the near future.

What would Proac Response 3.8S and Triangle Luna 260s sound like?

How would high efficiency Zus respond to close wall placement?

speakers of the class you're considering will not be well served by your old yamaha avr--they'll either be underpowered (revel) and/or show off the avr's limitations. you'd best best served by splitting your budget between speakers and a better, more powerful amp. in terms of near-wall placement, rega rs3/rs5, focal chorus, revel and mirage omd all work well.

I didn't think two feet from the back wall was that close.
Just asking?
Todd