That's funny. While the finish of the Silverlines adds to their retail cost, I understand the raw drivers cost more than the spending limit of my friend.
get a pair of JBL L100's they are always on ebay, for like $400 mint, then, take about $40, and about 2 weeks total, and give them a complete restore (like I did) and you have one fine set of speakers
I posed the question on three (3) forums and printed the replies for him to peruse. He hasn't got back with me, though I'm sure he appreciates the many useful suggestions offered.