Based on my most recent purchase of the Blue Sky ProDesk 2.1, I'd say go with the Blue Sky Mediadesk. They have a 2.1 and a 5.1 system, and I'm pretty sure the 2.1 is $500 or $600.
Sam Ash stores stock them, so I'd suggest you get on over to one and try them out. At first glance I thought they looked interesting, and the integration of the subwoofer into the system was unique (since it's 2.1 it's meant to be used with a sub at all times.) Now, when I actually heard them, I was blown away. It'll make a world of a difference in your music, and you'll never want to go to anything less.