@Ryder In general, I think your assessment is pretty accurate.
Regardless of cost or allocation of costs, I think, aside from one's overall budget, some important things to consider:
1) Matching your speakers to the size, aesthetics, and overall function of the space they will be used - a dedicated audio room/space or to be shared with other interests of the home. What types of music and at what volume levels will they be required to perform.
2) Match the amp/preamp or integrated amp to the speaker's output, impedance and and expected performance.
3) Make sure all is approved and sanctioned by the boss (I'm lucky to have an understand ing boss) :-) ..........Jim