You may want to call KEF in the UK and ask about their quality control system, such as whether they are ISO certified etc. As long as they follow reputable international quality system such as ISO, I would not worry about being made in China. They are actually quite good in wood work, and electronic component are highly automated, that really leave quality system being key I would think.
If you still worry, then you can always consider Ascend and Salk again as they are highly regarded and are priced right within your budget.