Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
Do you really want a receiver that much? It just takes up space. Unless you really need the many inputs flexibility...
I have a feeling that you are just bored and feel like spending money Nothing wrong with that, but I don't think you will get a noticeable upgrade with your budget. You are looking at a mid-range (don't expect a top of the line DAC), probably used receiver and a pair of second-hand bookshelves where you are taking a gamble on their condition (nobody knows how much the previous owner abused them).
If you are willing to stretch your budget, M-Audio is about to release this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/922786-REG/m_audio_m3eightx110_m3_8_3_way_amplified.html
For the money I would say:
Emotiva Pro airmotiv
audioengine 5+
(Seems quite a few people like the Emotiva better than the audioengine which is why I list them first.)
Do you really want a receiver that much? It just takes up space. Unless you really need the many inputs flexibility...
I have a feeling that you are just bored and feel like spending money Nothing wrong with that, but I don't think you will get a noticeable upgrade with your budget. You are looking at a mid-range (don't expect a top of the line DAC), probably used receiver and a pair of second-hand bookshelves where you are taking a gamble on their condition (nobody knows how much the previous owner abused them).
If you are willing to stretch your budget, M-Audio is about to release this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/922786-REG/m_audio_m3eightx110_m3_8_3_way_amplified.html
for $300/each. Note the 8" woofer and that the critical frequency range is handled by a coaxial driver. They have both balanced and unbalanced inputs so you have some source flexibility. Nobody knows how good they are yet, so I'd wait for some reviews and early adopter impressions.
There should be many other interesting options in the $500-700/pair range.
Generally, I would look into entry-level active studio monitors over a bookshelves-and-amp combo. IMO they win both in convenience and bang for the buck, and are specifically designed for near-field operation. I assume you will just put them on your desk?