LUDO: I'd take whatever gives me the best bang for bucks. I have to say that I get my kicks from a good Integra-ted install (haha) and squeezing good sound out of 'crap'. Also, matching equipment which will work together.

I have to say, I wanna hear your stereo cause it sounds awesome!

If I had the money and desire to go nuts (these holidays?) with a stereo I'd have:

H/U: Nakamichi or Eclipse deck (I like the plain look of the Nakamichi's)
Front stage: Dynaudio or Focal, maybe Signat if they have anything decent out
Sub: Focal or JL ( i love JL subs; I also like the MTX gear)
Amplification: Audison or McIntosh

Right now I have:

H/U:Sony C6800X. Simple CD player, around 3 years old, I know its lacking in SQ. A bit of hiss on silent parts which shits me.
Front Stage: Simple Clarions with fantastic Pioneer crossovers (modded a tad) , need upgrading if I am to amplify, have them cause they're efficient.
Sub: A Sony DVC 12" (because its red like the car; also because many people bag out Sony) Box is sealed, calculated, and dacron filled. Can't remember volume.
Amplification: Response 2x100w, would work better through a SVC sub; I may perform the popular internal mods to it. Front stage isnt amped because 1) I dont need it 2) cant be bothered working on those pesky wiring grommets in the doors just yet.

First thing I'd change is deck, and then front stage and amp it.

Pioneer speakers seem to be efficient to me, but I have only ever bought one pair. I have not bought Pioneer, nor Alpine decks cause I don't like the way they sit when installed; they often stick out alot. I suppose that there is little difference between top of the range items in any brand. I like the US quality, and I like their subs, but splits were lacking something to me. May have been the crossovers, I hated my clarion crossovers too. Might have even been the music.

Don't forget, thats just what I heard, I may be deaf. Even now, my tweeters are hidden away so that i dont get all that treble.

I think that you should make your stereo sound the way you want it to sound. My front stage is focused on me, stuff the passengers; they didn't pay for it!