How do you determine how much to spend on speakers

(In my opinion) They are the most crucial component for the sound you will achieve.

Next piece of advice is to get used components and speakers.

First, as mentioned above, go listen, listen, listen, to as many high-rated speakers to find out what sound pleases YOU with the music you like. Take your own music so you can compare speakers with music your used to and know well.

People who buy high-end equipment tend to take care of their stuff, and speakers don't have much wear issues if not overdriven.

When you know what you like, start saving, because it's still going to cost more than you want to spend. That's the nature of the beast.

Have fun. The joy of anticipation and seeking knowledge is priceless. Enjoy the journey as well as the destination.

You might consider a kit like the Linkwitz Orion's or some other serious home-built speaker system as well.

My original point was the difference between electronic components doesn't take much to get into diminishing returns for additional dollars, but you won't be happy unless you know the speakers you buy are your favorites in your price range. They may be the most similar sounding to your favorite money-is-no-object speaker.

Frank

Biro speakers, best buy for the money, period.

Determine your budget and double it. Nice try swampwalker!

Hi George, welcome to posting on Audiogon. From your other posts, you are obviously a fan of Biro speakers -- I assume you're not affiliated with the company. Could you share your impressions compared to other speakers and perhaps tell us how you determined what to spend on speakers vs. other components? Thanks.

Hi there,
I am not affiliated with any company, just another music/audio junkie. I flew to Minn. to visit with Frank Van Alstine and listened for two days to various equipement that he makes by hand right in his house. I do own some of his stuff from years past when he recommended B&W speakers. He now doesn't and lets you listen to the Biro's next to the B&W's. The Biro's actually sound better, clearer, tighter etc... It is amazing that for $1,600 you can have that kind of sound and for $1,500 more you can ad the sub-woofer. If you think you can get better sound quality than his equipement for the $$$, you are not correct!
I have compared the Biro's without the sub to my Snell mk-2, c's and xa60's. I can get more base out of the xa's and the c's , however, the overall sound is not as good, I was shocked! If you ar looking for speakers and have quality electronics, consider van alstine as apposed to the mass marketed, then get the Biro's!!