So what's the better deal (honestly)?

No sciencecop, just answering a very narrow minded question with a narrow minded answer.

Also, some people have all the money in the world to spend but are wise enough to know when not to.

You guy's "Paint" speakers???? Yuck!

 I only build with real woods. Plus, "When needed"- carbon fiber/resin.  Epoxy finishes with 1/4" clear over the wood. Never paint!
 Building a set now with "Mappa Burl" and "Mahogany". Also with "Flame/curly maple", accents. Next set will be "Bloodwood", "Purple Heart" with Carbon Fiber.

Both the expensive paint job and speaker footers are the way the manufacturer gets more of your hard earned $$$. A pair of $7600.00 pods for your speakers is just Magico  excess.  If the speakers need the special pods to sound their best, they should be included with the speakers, not as an expensive add on. This is mostly greed by the manufacturer and it’s amazing how many people will get sucked in to buy it. 

Amen, Stereo!!!!