This is a matter of opinion and personal preference. One of the main problems with using a subwoofer for each channel in a 2-ch system is proper setup. A main consideration is placement. Perfect symmetry, while it looks nice, can result in resonance doubling.
In my opinion, for music, full range speakers are the best way to go. I refuse to use a subwoofer in my 2-ch system.
There are some very affordable electrostatic speakers. Magnepan has a pair for around $600. Eminent Technology has a large bookshelf for about $1200. Martin Logan has some starting around $2K. There are some expensive models; however, there are also some good affordable options. All speakers require proper placement to get the best performance. That’s why I have sharpie labeled masking tape all over the floor in my listening room. Take the time to get them dialed in and mark the placement if you see a need to move them or have a rotation of speakers in your collection. The main issue with electrostatic panel placement has to do with proper toe-in and providing enough breathing room. Electrostatic speakers are dipoles and will emit sound from the rear of the panel. Consequently; if they are crammed in a corner, they will not sound their best. Also, eletrostic speaker present a different type of load to an amplifier, when compared to typical cone/dome drivers. Don't pair an electrostatic speaker with a $99 AVR.
Let me expand a little without going over board or getting too technical. What you are referring to is sound localization. At around 100Hz a person’s ability to localize sound begins to drop off. Therefor whether or not a subwoofer's location can or cannot be pinpointed has more to do with the crossover setting. At 120Hz and higher a sub can be localized until the frequency outputted drops to around the 100Hz to 80Hz range and lower. Lowering the crossover can minimize directional information and if dropped low enough totally eliminate it. Therefore, sub-bass frequencies cannot be located. In addition to the frequency - amplitude, room wave frequency support, and phase differences also play a role in whether or not a subwoofer can be localized. In most any room if a sub crossover is set to 60 to 50Hz, the listener will not be able to determine where the sub is located. It is important to remember that a crossover is a slope, not a cutoff point.
However, I'll let him do the official reveal. We exchanged some PM's about it.