Sounds fun, scorpious. All of my advanced education is in classical music performance, and I chose Martin Logan Summits after a ton of auditioning. They are selling used for half off right now, at about 5.4k-5.6k. In different finishes too. They are definitely taller than 4ft, but they look different enough to warrant showing the C.O.
They retail at least around 11k, with 5% discount limit from authorized sellers. Each speaker has two 10" alum woofers, each powered by their own 200w ICE amp. The panel needs to be powered, and I do so with an integrated.
They do present some compromises, big time. They need/want space from the front boundary, with treatments, and the sweetspot is very small. But that sweetspot is amazing. Just an idea, and I know its over-budget.
Otherwise, I am a fan of Dyn speakers as well. You should pretty easily find the Contour line within budget, if the Confidence is too much. Love those as well. As much as i liked the BW 804s, I think I prefer the Contours. The 804s had a pretty easily detectable voicing in the higher register, but the "timbre" at least was very consistent throughout the range, at least when using string quartet or solo piano material on them. I was very close to buying those as well. Visited multiple BW stores on multiple occasions. edit: the 804s also exhibited a bit of sibilance that I dont remember with the Contours, and on the MLs its virtually nonexistent.
The MLs are not as consistent, timbrally, throughout the range due to hybrid design, but anything within the vocal range is incredible, as are quiet pianissimo transients in general.
Have fun!
j
