Jimmy, Scott and Will are correct, in general, though I might disagree with them about the speakers they prefer,and probably disagree a lot about any notions of "synergy." Well-designed cd players and amps are not hard to find, and if well designed, will not differ by much. Just look at the measurements. The noise floor (distortion components mostly) of electronic components is much lower than that of speakers. Plus, the measured frequency response of almost all electronic components is fairly close to flat, whereas speakers tend to vary quite a bit.
There are hundreds and hundreds of speakers in the market, some of them very poorly designed, and there is not much correlation between price and quality. Look at John Atkinson's measurements of some very expensive speakers in the latest Stereophile and read between the lines of his comments. An "enigma" because they sound good to the reviewer but measure weird, means he doesnt know what his reviewer was smoking.
With respect, and fondness, I believe Craig is incorrect when he says that the big differences in speakers are at the frequency extremes. In fact, the big differences are in the midrange, except for really poor designs showing through in the upper bass (boom) and treble (excessive sibilance or lispiness).
In the $2500 retail price range, there are some very good speakers. I dont think it's necessary to spend any more than that for speakers, and there are some wonderful small speakers at lower price points (e.g., Harbeth HLP3ES's and Epos M12's - neither of which do I own). The Vandersteens are well received by consumers as well as reviewers, at very reasonable price points. At all price points, from $200 to $30k and above, there are some absolutely horrible speakers.
Audition as many speakers as you need to before you find a pair that you like. If they have been reviewed with measurements, take the measurements seriously. Finally, consider the effect of your room. Hard reflective surfaces, like low ceilings, nearby walls and coffee tables, will affect the frequency response at your listening position, regardless of which speakers you choose.
Paul
There are hundreds and hundreds of speakers in the market, some of them very poorly designed, and there is not much correlation between price and quality. Look at John Atkinson's measurements of some very expensive speakers in the latest Stereophile and read between the lines of his comments. An "enigma" because they sound good to the reviewer but measure weird, means he doesnt know what his reviewer was smoking.
With respect, and fondness, I believe Craig is incorrect when he says that the big differences in speakers are at the frequency extremes. In fact, the big differences are in the midrange, except for really poor designs showing through in the upper bass (boom) and treble (excessive sibilance or lispiness).
In the $2500 retail price range, there are some very good speakers. I dont think it's necessary to spend any more than that for speakers, and there are some wonderful small speakers at lower price points (e.g., Harbeth HLP3ES's and Epos M12's - neither of which do I own). The Vandersteens are well received by consumers as well as reviewers, at very reasonable price points. At all price points, from $200 to $30k and above, there are some absolutely horrible speakers.
Audition as many speakers as you need to before you find a pair that you like. If they have been reviewed with measurements, take the measurements seriously. Finally, consider the effect of your room. Hard reflective surfaces, like low ceilings, nearby walls and coffee tables, will affect the frequency response at your listening position, regardless of which speakers you choose.
Paul