I haven't heard the Ascends either, but the frequency response charts looked pretty good.
I went with Monitor Audio Bronze 2s over M3s for a gameroom system, but I'm not always sure I did the right thing. Part of the problem was I ordered the M3s in Beech and they didn't look right with the paint and furniture. Both the MAs and M3s blew away a pair of JBL E30s I demoed them with.
I think part of the problem with many small speakers is that the makers try to make them do too much. They do to audio what impressionists did to painting - not about accuracy but an impression of reality. The M3s are very accurate, lacking all those cabinet resonances which initially sound full and pleasing, but can annoy over time. The MAs I have do display a little chestiness that is apparent on some CDs.
I think that you're not going to be able to find perfection in bookshelves at that price (or any price?).
