Where to spend to get maximum audio quality on a system at a given price

[mayhem13]

While I agree with most of the responses as to formulae, I'm a firm believer in the final piece of the chain.....the speakers....the single most important part of it all. Qualities of low harmonic distortion, smooth frequency response, even power response, well constructed cabinets are expensive orders to fill. But in order for a speaker to perform as intended, it's extremely Important to identify placement limitations for the speakers such as distance and boundaries first. IMO your 50% ratio for speakers isn't too far off from what I would a lot as your including amplification. For an active solution and your budget, Genelecs would be a great place to start.