AgentOrange, you're right. Its a great time to be in the long end audio market. Back when I started out in stereo (in the 70's) you'd have a very hard time generating much discussion within the C&C imposed system limits.
The Audio Engine A2+ speakers are $250/pair and include a Redbook DAC with deeper bass (F3 = 65 Hz), subwoofer output with the same 3/4" silk dome tweeter with neodymium magnet, 2 3/4" Kevlar woven glass aramid composite with rubber surround woofer and sized cabinet as the original A2. Just connect to your computer (and of course Audio Engine offers wireless). That's about as small, simple, cheap and still be considered 'audiophile' grade as I can imagine. Here's a positive review:
//www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audioengine-a2-desktop-speakers-and-d3-dac/?utm_campaign=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_source=email-211
A few months ago I picked up a Logitech UE smart radio ($99 wireless internet clock radio). While not 'audiophile' grade it has a very pleasant sound on it's own (I use it while reading), will also tap into music stored on your local network, can input one analog source, and provide good quality 3.5 mm analog output (headphones or powered speakers). For the same price as an Apple Airport Express it includes speaker and decent controls.
