If you read Dr. Toole’s book, page 338, he gives an example of six speakers, ranging from $200 pr. to $22,000 a pair. Tonal balance and smoothness can be pretty much on the mark at $200 a pair (or perhaps a little less, with a little compromise as with my BS-22s). The differentiators beyond that are fit & finish, looks, power-handling capabilities, low frequency extension, tighter & tighter control of resonances, etc.
So don’t be surprised at the next $200 / pr. speaker that kicks the snot out of more expensive speakers from manufacturers who are not putting in a full effort for a particular model (or who don’t know exactly what they’re doing or prioritize marketing over SQ). This is not news. Pop a couple of good subwoofers in the system along with those $200/pr. speakers and manage your bass well, and yes, you have something formidable for not too much money.