This will be my first attempt at a set of speakers, and my first atttempt at veneering anything, so any suggestions as to how to proceed, any tips, or tricks, or what the minimal set of tools that I will need, or any other suggestions as to wood selection, finish, or where to order veneer supplies from, etc. would be appreciated.

I hope to wind up with a decent looking set of speakers, but not having to spend too much time or money to make them look that way.

If you want something simpler and easier to do than paint, and a black finish is your main goal, try something like this...

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=260-010

It's fairly easy to use, and just has a sticky back and you put it on. Cut edges with a box cutter. Fairly easy to apply, although for the best finish you want to sand the box nice and smooth (no edges or bumps) and make sure to smooth out air bubbles when applying. Adding some extra spray glue (mainly on edges) will also help keep it stuck. Probably going to be a lot easier than painting, unless your goal specifically is some kind of super glossy finish.

Adam