Why do folks spend more on electronics than on speakers?

Because we are dumb! 

By far the biggest deviation from the (whatever it is) ideal signal chain is caused by the speakers (and the room). Logic dictates that this is where the best bang/buck can be achived (not that more $$$ automatically results in better results). 

On the other hand: any reduction in loss/error is a GAIN. So we are striving to make improvments in ALL sections of the signal path. But if someone comes to me with $2,000 in hand and tells me to put together a system for him/her, I would NOT spend $1000 for an amplifier and $200 for cables. 

I bought my speakers first. I wound up buying Magnepan’s 1.7i, as that was the best speaker I could find within my budget at the time.

very wise...👍

these are a wonderful example of a sub-$3000 speaker, that can and will keep sounding better and better if the gear feeding them are 10-20-30 grand... it is absolutely superb and it absolutely (and not subtly) lets better and better inputs shine through

need careful setup though, but done right, they put speakers many times their cost to shame

@rossb, what speakers do you have?

Interesting discussion. I do think the speakers deserve the largest share of the $ spent. However, I think we can all agree that it is also the least predictable component to upgrade. With electronics, it’s fairly easy to spend more, get more unless you make a fairly radical change.

With speakers, even upgrading within a speaker line will not always result in better sound. They’ can also be the hardest & most expensive to resell, due to shipping. If you really like the sound you’re getting, I can see why you might hang on to the speakers & spend your money elsewhere.

Ronboco thanks for the recommendation on the Rockports. Not sure if they are in my region; will have to look..

I didn’t actually find the 802 D3’s at all fatiguing, not by a longshot when driven by the Diablo 300. While I found the presentation to be quite mid-forward which seemed to overshadow some of the bass, the mids that were there were so fluid and lush. Not harsh at all. So again I actually wonder if I could prefer this style. I also think it may be just in relation to my 803 D2’s, which are actually quite relaxed in the mids (only when driven by the Diablo 300 though, can be harsh with other amps on certain music).

I’m getting older now and it’s crossed my mind that a mid forward presentation might actually offset my deteriorating high-frequency hearing that everyone is prone to as they age….

I'm in the speakers first camp, although I would caution that you need to listen to your choice in different places with different electronics.  Over spend on speakers you love and they will pay you back day after day.  Electronics can be upgraded easily, particularly analog or digital front ends.

Agree 100% with @ghdprentice in two respects: I also am a major ARC fan and a speakers first guy.  ARC builds synergy into all of their products.

Caveats:   In no way am I saying that other top shelf manufacturers don't have synergy.  And, overspending on speakers is a personal choice and may not fit into what is happening in your life.

We just need to relax and enjoy the music.

Regards,

barts