A properly designed port flange won't 'chuff' like a poorly designed one, making the argument of close to the wall rear ported monitors moot. You will get the bass reinforcement you need.
I'm breaking in a pair of Clearwave Duet 6 monitors and, at first, had them on the maple butcher blocks on the floor that I used as bases for my Tonians and the base reinforcement was substantial. In fact, too much.
My room is around the same size as yours (with one side opening up to the kitchen and dining area) and I have them on the long wall about 1' from the front wall in the same place where I had my Tonians and the bass I'm getting is spot on with no bloom and no need whatsoever for a sub. It's that good.
I only have about 75-80 hours on them so time will tell. As for what speaker in your budget, that's a tough one. Check out the threads here for similar views and you'll get lots of suggestions so trust your own ears and best of luck.
All the best,
Nonoise
I'm breaking in a pair of Clearwave Duet 6 monitors and, at first, had them on the maple butcher blocks on the floor that I used as bases for my Tonians and the base reinforcement was substantial. In fact, too much.
My room is around the same size as yours (with one side opening up to the kitchen and dining area) and I have them on the long wall about 1' from the front wall in the same place where I had my Tonians and the bass I'm getting is spot on with no bloom and no need whatsoever for a sub. It's that good.
I only have about 75-80 hours on them so time will tell. As for what speaker in your budget, that's a tough one. Check out the threads here for similar views and you'll get lots of suggestions so trust your own ears and best of luck.
All the best,
Nonoise