What makes an expensive speaker expensive

timlub is correct in that it certainly is possible (paraphrasing) to achieve remarkable value at a $5K price point. This is why Golden Ear Technologies is so successful. It is absolutely true that they have somehow bridged the gap between very high end and pricey speakers with just as good sound - if not better - sound and affordability. Besides the fact that I own the Triton One's so am naturally biased, I have listened to a handful (admittedly only around 10 or so) of other manufacturers that cost WAY more and in my opinion would be more than hard pressed to justify the cost. Case in point, Alta Statement Towers. They retail at $200,000 a pair. In my view the only thing about them that made them superior to my Tritons was the incredible cabinetry material (yes that does improve sound of course). But a $195,000 more? I don't think so. There has to be a realistic trade off. Kind of like diminishing returns. Listen to and/or GET the Golden Ear Triton One's and you'll hear what I mean. Your wallet will thank you. 

You should be biased or it's time for a new pair of speakers, lol.  Once you get to a certain price point, there is not diminishing return.  It become all about what someone is willing and can pay.  This is why the companies can do so much R&D and we are all rewarded with the trickle down tec (if you don't have the TOL from your manufacturer).  

Even if I don't personally love someone's components, I do love hearing folks push what they own are want to own.  That's part of what has always made this fun for me.  Nice post thanks

Hi gdhal,
    The Golden Ear, specifically the Triton line are a perfect example of this entire conversation.... To be fair to The Alta Statements, they appear by my feeble eyes to be Morel and Raal.   The Morel Midrange and the Raal Tweeters alone cost more than most of the entire Titan One to manufacture... But, just as we discussed,  quality parts, in combination with a great design can produce a huge value in comparison.