The real key is to buy good used speakers at excellent prices. That way you can essentially audition them for free. Buy the speakers, listen for a few weeks or months, and if they don't suit simply turn around and sell them for exactly what you paid. There may be a bit of hassle involved, but since you can get an extended in-home audition this way, in the long run you win. Happy listening!
Unable to audition used speakers a problem
One component I will not buy unless I can audition the item for sale are speakers. This severely limits available candidates, but that is OK with me. The problem is that whenever I find a local pair I would consider purchasing, the seller is unable to allow an audition because "they're boxed up". What's up with that? Wouldn't it make more sense to leave them connected or ready to be connected for at least a few weeks after they're listed for sale? Why box and seal them up before placing the ad? Does anyone else find this a problem or am I just being overly prudent?