High value floorstanders around $1k used

Used Thiel .5s for $650 on this site...phase correct design,great imaging, a little lean on bass and a little power hungry...but they are front ported so they would work near walls... a great little 2-way floorstander....

You should check out a pair of the Von Schweikert VR-1 http://www.vonschweikert.com/interface/vr1_main.htm . They retail for 1k and sound awesome. The top end is precise and crisp without sounding tinny and if you are putting them close to the rear wall the base is no problem. But better yet, you will still get a great and deep soundstage. To me they sound like the best electrostatics with a great rich base to-boot.

Regarding Thiels, you can now find 2.2's at your price point used. They are very natural and transparent, and provide excellent bass extension and detail for the cabinet size and cost. They will work alright placed close to the front wall (no rear port), although the bass could get a little heavy overall depending on the room size and the amp being used. Been happy with mine since '97.

I agree with Subaruguru. I feel you would be better off to get a breat pair of monitors, and then perhaps add a subwoofer at a later date. I would suggest the green mountain audio europa's. The are a great sounding monitor.

Andre:

See if any of the local dealers carry Castle Acoustics (a UK manufacturer). Their Pembroke model (slim floor stander) would be worth an audition. The US distributor for the line is/was (not certain anymore) May Audio Marketing, which is based near Niagara Falls.

The Pembroke's have tuneful (not exaggerated) bass and will work in small/medium rooms (also do fairly well close to the front wall, figure 12"-18").

The cabinet work is first rate and customer service from both the manufacturer and the distributor is top notch.