Best Desktop Speakers under $500

Wharfedale Denton 80th 

The Kef Q150's that Jon_5912 suggested would be nice in a smaller room. The coaxial tweeter is great in close quarters.
They are not powered speakers, if it matters.
Here's the link from Jon_5912's post:

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/kefq150wln/kef-q150-5.25-2-way-bookshelf-speaker-...

Goodmans Maxim, from the 60s.
You can just about find a good pair for $500.

Hello,
I think you should go with the PSB AM3s for $399. If you can find the AM5s used that would be your best bet. They retail for $599. They are powered and have several inputs including a phono stage. Also has Toslink, Bluetooth, and line in. And just in case you do want better bass it has subwoofer out. One and done powered speaker system.  Plus, All Paul Barton speakers are really good. I heard them at this store in the Chicagoland area:
https://holmaudio.com/
this store will let you try them before you buy them in your home. 

The Vanatoo Transparent Zeros are quite nice. Stands would be recommended to get them up off the desk.