further to $ 2000. bookshelf speakers


I had the opportunity to listen to Totem series 1 signature speakers at a friends house. Same size room as mine approx. 12X 20 feet. To me they were very bright and lively.The highs were very crisp and pronounced. The bass was punchy and point source. Unfortunately they are not for me.I'll try to explain, I could clearly hear the drumsticks strike the Cymbal more so than the cymbal. The bass sounded to be on its own rather than part of the Band. The music was Miles Davis and Coltrane. In my quest for mellow and rich sound these did not do it. I am leaning towards Harbeth p3 ESR based on comments here from replies to my earlier post. The question is, will the Harbeth sound more mellow and less bright and fill the room more than the Totems? Your answers will be very much appreciated.I am trying to find a Harbeth listening location here in Canada Toronto area.
Regards Peter
petrox
I stumbled on to these recently .... An unexpected audition that left me slack-jawed at just how damn good they can be , if paired with suitable high-end electronics and cables . (... don't try to fake it with cheap supporting gear....)

ATC SCM 11 (2013 model) (.... the NEW model, not the old.)

WHAT HI-FI 5 stars rating

".... Our Verdict .....

Best standmounter £800-£1200, Awards 2014. ATC has struck gold again. These are the most talented standmounters anywhere near this price

For

Versatile, balanced sound
Smooth and subtle with fine power and weight
Insightful, expressive vocals

Against

Nothing of note

Read more at http://www.whathifi.com/atc/scm-11-2013/review#ISVEZcBCq0g0MJ2x.99
I'm presently falling in love with my Clearwave Duet 6 monitors but they're more than your budget. If their Aperture S52 is anything like it, it just may be what you're looking for, and they're right at your budget until they run of of the remaining stock.

All the best,
Nonoise
I think you should listen to both Spendor and Proac lines before purchasing. Harbeth get great reviews, and I bought a pair based on those reviews without hearing them first. I sold them two months later after determining they were not what I wanted. Unless you are buying used and can resell without significant loss you should audition before purchase.