Jim,
My studio monitors are powered Event Opals for $3K a pair. That's quality sound.
I also use this bose system with my laptop and have been very happy.
http://tinyurl.com/yl6phej
Sound field is nicely diffuse and "surroundy" with the right sources. It's a USB connection to the computer or the mini 1/8" TRS jack if you're not using USB.
Regards,
Ty Ford

Want better production audio?:
Ty Ford's Audio Bootcamp Field Guide