For me, it makes sense to build from the wall-out/ground-up, beginning with power processing, conditioning, and amplification. No front-end source or subsequent speakers will work their best if not provided the best possible energy with which to fuel them. And to this end, its not always a price<quality ratio, rather just thorough research and auditioning to achieve max. synergy. Case in-point with my 11 yr old Athena - Had no idea what they were capable of until now. And, remember the show results from putting a VAC 450iQ Integrated behind those Apollos. Incredibly expensive power source, yes, but the point is clear. Max out your power plant, and the more everything else can be revealed, IMHO.