Bookshelf speakers $500 -$700

Pioneer sp-bs22 is a great starting point, just bought a pr for my granddaughter. They will pop up on Amazon for $89 a pr. Next big jump up is the Silverline Minuet Supreme + that will easily compete with the Spendors, Harbeths , etc at two to three times the price.

Two suggestions: Google them for other top reviews

Rega R1 or RS1

The Rega R1 Loudspeaker - A New Budget Reference
The Stereo Times review December 2005

"..The Rega R1 becomes my new budget reference speaker. In
addition of its ability to get the fundamentals of music right, it adds clarity
and resolution, and an ability to lay out a vivid and coherent 3-
dimensional stereo image. In small room applications, what more could
you want?..."

Tannoy Revolution DC6

WHAT HI-FI 5 Star rated

Review Sept 2012

".. Best standmounter £350-£700, Awards 2012. ...
Detailed, dynamic and fast on their feet, these sound just as good as they
look ...."

I have the Tannoys in my " B" system and the R1s in my
" C" system.

Highly recommended and well worth a personal audition.

"07-23-14: Philjolet
why not just buy these for $129.00?
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR"

I have a pair of those I use my PC. No question they're a great deal, but with a budget of $500-&700, I think you a speaker that is a big step up from the Pioneer.

I agree get some actives and ditch your amp.

I recently picked up a pair of PSB Imagine Bs that I'm pleased with. They are rear ported and will do best when placed on a solid stand. I have them paired with a SVS sub and cross them over at about 60.

When deciding on bookshelves, placement proximity to the walls is important. How close do you intend to place them to a wall? Also, do you already have a sub? If not, that could be a factor depending on how much bass you want from the rock.