Deteriorating speakers -- Class A today, C Tomorr

As dombubble above, I've found that speakers can last a very long time. As Oz notes, some parts may need replacing, but generally they perform. Technology, however, doesn't seem to last that long, and materials & parts improve -- or at least, become cheaper & thereby what was found only in giga$ models yesterday can be had for just(!) mega$ today. In that sense, "overpowering time" is a blessing.
(But the Grande Utopia are mega performers, today too, IMO.) Maybe we shouldn't worry because as W says, we usually change them before they kick the bucket... Cheers

I own a pair of speakers made around 1979 and other than replacing the foam surrounds they are all original. I don't know what they sounded like in 79 but they sound superb in 2002.

I have gone and auditioned some pretty high end gear and compared it with my system at home, the Infinity IRS V for my mains and I have some very low serial number betas as well. They still sound class A to me.

Humphry - All of the above posts have mentioned some very valid points to consider. Personally, I've probably had only 7 or 8 sets of speakers over the past ten years; and can't honestly think of any problem I've ever had with any used speakers I've bought. In fact my Thiel 3.5s, which I bought from the original owner, are about 10 or 11 years old and sound better than ever. (Partly due to better sources and electronics over the past few years!)
Mostly what I would be concerned with is the past user's treatment of the speaker. Does he/she play music at high levels? Listen to lots of rock/rap/heavy metal? Do the speakers look like they've had a rough life? (Probably a good reason NOT to buy them!) Let's face it - in this hobby of ours - condition counts for a lot! Do your homework, and by all means if you're going to make a speaker purchase listen to them BEFORE you buy. Just because a speaker is highly rated by TAS or Stereophile doesn't necessarily mean that it will sound great with your equipment. Good listening!

I have speakers that were originaly built in the 80's.
They have been re-foamed and are by far the best sound I have ever heard. The newest version sells for over $20K and even if I had the money I can't imagine being tempted. Well okay maybe:-). But my point is that technology may improve but I am not convinced the sound does. Just think how many older speakers still have first class sound. Snell A's, Original OHM F's and many others.