Kef Q150's right now are about the best you'll find for the budget https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q150-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B071P6KQZX

Of course, within budget those Audioengines should be fine in a small space. If you want to go with separates and can wait for a sale the KEF Q150s would be a step above the rest. They do go on sale for $299.

https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q150-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B071P6KQZX