Bookshelf speakers with the best bass...

I agree with Sugarbrie, great stands like Sound Org. with sand and lead shot, Blue Tac on top will certainly tighten and deepen bass. For $2500 the Reference 3A DeCapos are superb.

I'll second Red Rose. Sugerbrie's advice should also be headed. The Red Rose monitors are ported in the rear, and if they are not set up right they will sound pretty bad. If you are forced to put these into a bookshelf--these probably won't work.

Look into the Dynaudio 1.3SE. They retail for about $3500. You could probably get them for your price.

Ditto on the Dynaudio 1.3SE. They are an amazing sounding speaker (on stands).

Agree with position and stands as issues. Direction of port can also be an issue with bass and room placement. The Tyler Taylo reference has a front port which makes it easier to place near walls.