Indeed. While another audiophile might consider $2K USD to be entry-level, the availability of components less than $1K USD that offer a true taste (listen?) of the high end is a fortunate thing. Especially for those of us without the disposable income to go the cost-is-no-object route.

I think globalization and outsourcing of production to the Pacific Rim helps equalize the weak dollar. I'm not sure if B&W still does manufacturing and assembly in-house (haven't heard otherwise, but you have to wonder...). However, since they are supposedly one of the largest loudspeaker manufacturers in the world, perhaps they can leverage things like economy of scale.

Always wanted to give Triangles a good listen, unfortunately, haven't found a dealer within reasonable distance of Chicago.

Happy Thanksgiving. Cheers!