Speakers: What's MOST important to you?...

An absence of colorations, accurate tonality, detail, dynamics, soundstage and imaging, etc. Each of these qualities is essential, but most of all the speakers must evoke a positive emotional reaction. My speakers should make me look forward to spending time listening to my system. Of course each individual component contributes its share to the enjoyment.

All the characteristics mentioned above plus COHERENCY. Must be seamless from top to bottom and bass must be tight and musical with the ability to resolve inner detail, not just thump, thump, thump. Must present music naturally making you forget your equipment, must engage the inner hedonist as much and more than the inner analyst. Must not
"congest" as volume is raised. Must have upper extension without bumping the higy end, detail that sounds natural, not etched.

Other than the attributes listed above, I think overall balance is critical. Nothing glaring or exaggerated. I want the presentation to float unrestricted, like the opening of a window and the removal of walls in the room.

1) you forget about the stereo and listen to the music

2) the midrange quality because 90% of the music is there

3) it fits the music you like and the room

these are in no particular order

BTW you may want a speaker that is easy to drive as you will save lots of money on amplifier