If there is an NHT dealer near by, you might give the new Classic line a listen, or perhaps the outgoing SB series.

I have a pair of SB3's in one system, and a new pair of AZ's (Absolute Zero's) in another.

The SB3's have ample bass, and can be used w/o a sub. Since they are being discontinued, I expect you can find them at the price point you are discussing. The SB3 has been favorably reviewed in Stereophile.

The AZ's would need a sub, so you would want to step up at least to the Classic 2's. I have not heard those, but they are said to be voiced like the AZ's, but with better low end extension.

In general, the Classic have a bit more detail then the SB's, and do great things with soundstage width and depth. On top of that, they all have a beautiful piano black finish.

Take a look through the last couple years of Stereophile...Robert Reina has done a great series of reviews of budget loudspeakers.

Brian