Hi Larry,
No, I'm not saying that turning off the internal speakers has a sonic effect on the main outputs. My point is that in a smaller setting, having the internal speakers on WITH an external source will give you a sum of both parts for a totally new sound. If the internal speakers are within ears-reach to anyone, and you add the extra presence of a second system, the audience will hear the blended mix of the two. I like what the internal speakers add to the mix, myself.

Here's are my recommendations for monitors:
(Dnj is also (maybe) selling a pair of speakers ... I think. What day is it? lol)

I have the 8" Eris, and I love them. I also have an almost unused pair of the iLouds that I'll sell you for $200 if you like the smaller route. The B5x's were workhorses at my school for over 10 years. Love all three.