Best for Classic/Progressive Rock and Blues

@akg_ca  wow, that is a ton of great info, thank you!  I was a teenager in the 70’s and totally into music, like I am today.  But I was never the kid with the great stereo, I had the Panasonic “all in one” system but being a dopey kid was reasonably happy. In the last several years I have been collecting vintage gear so I am familiar with AR (have an XA tt). I also know of the L100’s but have never heard them. Will look into them and see what’s available in the area. Thanks again! 

Vintage JBLs like 4311, 4312, and many in the L series can be found for $6-800. If they're all original and in good condition,they will fulfill your wishes. 

seems the 500 is similar 3 way, 12", level controls: except the 1000 have beryllium tweet/mid. replacing berylilium drivers could be hard and expensive, the ns-500m with conventional materials might be the better choice.

1000 is 8 ohms, sensitivity 90 db.

500 is 6 ohms, sensitivity 91 db

yamaha ns-500m spec sheet

no joke, they weigh 51 lbs

I see some small protrusions in the left cloth to ask about

ergo 900 dc specs, two 8" woofers

pair in mesa az

Not easy to find but if you spot a pair of used Ohm Walsh speakers in your price range, those are the ticket.