Makes you wonder how much they may have skimped on crossover components.
Did I Expect too much?
I purchased a pair of speakers from a US manufacturer who I shall not name. The speakers are beautiful and the sound exceeds my expectations (after a minor upgrade). So why would such a reputable company use six dollar binding posts? It makes no sense. I replaced them with Cardas binding posts and decent 12 gauge wire between the driver and posts. My system is valued for clarity and clean highs. The difference was audible. I know, snake oil. But it wasn’t. I don’t think that spending $15K for speakers is nothing. So yes, I was disappointed.
- ...
- 47 posts total
I recently had the owner of a very good audio retail store tell me that a speaker manufacturer will spend $10K to build a speaker. They then wholesale that speaker to the retailer for $20K. 100% mark-up or 50% margin. The retailer then puts the speaker on the floor for $40K. Again, 100% mark-up or 50% margin. I have no reason to think he was not being truthful. My takeaway is the retail price has nothing to do with the cost of manufacturing or my expectation of highest quality components. Cheers. |
It's not easy to build a pair of speakers that are beautiful and sound beautiful for people with high expectations for $15,000. Running a business today is not cheap or easy. Anyone who thinks it is probably hasn't run one. |
Please share the name of the company and the speakers. It would be helpful for prospective buyers to know. Quality parts throughout is one of the reasons I bought Arendal and Revel speakers. My subs have some lower quality parts but I expected them to at their prices points. They still sound excellent. |
@bigtwin That's about right. Most manufactures spend 20-25% of MSRP to build their speakers. |
- 47 posts total