Well, you certainly CAN find real value for low cost these days. For example the small Zoom digital records H2, H4, H4N, have features that only a few years ago you couldn't buy at five times the cost.
I have three sets of Logitech "computer" speakers, 2 of the 2200s and 1 5500. I keep one in a bag for backup p.a., one for my computer and the 5500 for the living room surround system. All 3 together cost less than many less powerful systems from other makers. They sound great, are extremely dependable (one set is four years old) and have the best warranty imaginable. You just call them and say it's broken and they send you another one!
I have a $300 mini-laptop that is remarkable. Even if such a unit had been available two years ago, it would have been at least three or four times as expensive.
It has a very good sound card, built-in web camera, 160 gig HD, fast processor and adequate memory for everything I do.
I'm so glad I didn't look at these things and say, "That's too good to be true."
If Fran uses the speakers a while and finds fault with them, he WILL let us know.
DonM