When it comes to speakers, you have basically two categories to choose from: "bookshelf" (which require a stand of some kind, even if that's just going to be your bookshelf) or floor standing. Floor standing speakers require more cabinet work, generally give you more bass, and generally cost more. But if you have to buy stands for the bookshelf speakers, they can often eat up the difference in price.Frankly, speakers is where I'd reach if I had room in my budget. A pair of speakers should last you 10 years, so amortize the cost. Real wood veneer may cost more, but it sure looks better.
Here are some recommendations (prices are by the pair):
Floorstanding
Totem Arro ($750 used; $1350 new; I think these are fantastic - see my love letter post below)
PSB T45 ($800 new, on sale now for $500) (Soundstage review): PSB is a Canadian company that makes excellent speakers for reasonable prices. I think this model may be on the verge of being replaced, so there are some good "closeout" deals going right now. At $500, this is a great (retail) deal.
Bookshelf:
PSB B25 ($450 new, ~$300 used) (Stereophile review): In the words of the Stereophile review: "I can't think of a single other speaker for less than $500/pair that outperforms the PSB Image B25."
Epos ELS-3 ($330 new): Tiny little speakers, very well reviewed, can be combined with a subwoofer if more bass is required.
