Who's winning?

I guess if your question is, is cheaper better, it depends on what you want.

That is; a cheaper cost speaker with limited potential or a better speaker that costs more.

ozzy

I think the winner is the guy who buys the 30k speaker used for 15k.

So ignorance actually is bliss?

@tony1954 I would say, Yes!

Hey I remember (speaking of analog) back in 2012 I was getting into Vinyl heavy and one of my early turntables was a REGA P3 with a Dynavector 10X5 cartridge, this was a very fun time indeed, lots of loud listening sessions was a toe tapping wanna get up and move with the music great time. Then I had to keep upgrading until I arrived at a point where my system is so sensitive now I have to be very discerning on what I place on the platter. My JA Michell Gyro SE turntable with Dynavector 20x2 low output takes all the great qualities of the P3/10X5 combo but elevates the refinement several levels. There are days when I miss that fun sound that wasn't so particular. So I say any system that makes you smile or you get goosebumps or you wanna get up and dance is where it at!! no matter the cost.