used speakers

Hey thats good...so far as i know before picking up speakers inspect cabinets thoroughly..a rap on each side will tell you all..and move the woofers with your finger and there should be free silky movement with out any abrasive feel..check for foam surrounds, screw's will tell you a lot whether someone has delved into the bowels of cabinet or not....Hmm nothing more I know may be champs can add a lot more..

Anirvan can you tell me where I may locate some ex consulate or embassy off loads, do they go to certain shops if so where can I find them?

Hi Anirvan,
As far as I can say being within close quarters with people that sell what you call "Consulate Stuffs", the main and most commonly found problem or repair (on speakers) that has been carried out by them is on the coils (not the crossover inductor but the speaker voice coils).
Now this is one thing I am sure one wouldnt be able to make out from the outside and I am sure they wouldnt be using the exact winds neither the preffered quality of wire, well speaker sorround foams are one more area too, but I see that has been already discussed.
Anyways, wish you all the luck !
Hope this helps.
Sandeep.
As far as electronics is concerned, check the circuit board and look for "ugly looking solder" and "jumper settings".