Are loudspeakers that different?


I never get to audition speakers since I have NO dealers near me. This week I was able to listen to Totem speakers while on a trip. I could not believe the difference compared to my Aerials!
The reason I posted this is I wanted some feedback - - I had been starting to get the impression that speakers were different but not strikingly so, like my impression of CD players. This audition changed my mind. Then I began wondering about the differences between modest costing speakers and expensive one (7k plus). Can anyone share their experiences with listening and comparing, who what where...?
Thanks...cause ultimately I thought I had shook the upgrade bug....

jimmy2615
You got a lot of solid advice in a very short time, Jimmy. Excuse me if I am wrong, but it seems to me you have already decided on the Totem, and what you may need is a pat on the back. No?
Will, sources Oracle V/Graham 2.2/Helikon SL & Koetsu Onyx; and AA Captiole Mk I. Speakers Von Schweikert VR-5HSEs.

Don't have a true HT system, but augment video sound with Spendor S3/5s and Sub3 (no center)- very enjoyable for audio too.
Grandpad: Nice!

Bomarc: Excellent advice. It's a damned shame when one lives a zillion miles from good dealers but you're absolutely on target here. If Jimmy wants the gain he's gonna hafta bear the pain: shipping speakers in and out, driving lots of miles to hear them, making his significant other and everyone else around him crazy. Making himself crazy. Perhaps the definitive test for certifiable audiophilia will be whether or not he finds this process pleasurable. :)

will