Best speakers for $500 or less


I have a friend who wants to get a good pair of speakers for $500 or less, and was looking at Bose. I cringed. Though Bose does make some OK speakers for a very small size, I thought there is probably something better out there and I would turn to all the good Audiogoner's to help! My friend listens to a mix of 2-channel and TV/movies, and is looking to get two speakers now and expand later. What would you suggest???
linesplice
Second the SD 300ti. Perhaps even the Sound Dynamics RTS3,
In a bigger size, Magnepan MMG at 550.00/pair factory direct. One of the best buys in audio IMHO.
I have owned the RTS-3's, they were very good. Exceptional bass from a monitor. There was a pair for sale on here for $150 I think. Not sure if still available.

Regards,

PS - Also the new Epos minimonitor's too. Not sure how good for movies/HT though.