Has the cost of HiFi gotten a bit too much?

Femoore12

Thoughtful post. I agree most Americans are myopic, as are the majority of humans spread across the globe. Self centeredness is a basic driving force of survival. As to everyone having a voice, and even though I may find some reprehensible, I struggle with the idea that they have no right to be represented in the larger equation. I have faith that the majority will see the logic in win win decision making- taking into consideration the concept that some may obtain a larger portion of the win. I don’t see how we unwind some of those basic instincts of survival. In every species some form of Darwinism is evident. 
 

and back to the OP…….Corporations (people), are wired to maximize their return on effort. Nothing at all wrong with that concept. I assume some manufacturers see the ROI in mid-fi to the masses- and others are targeting the Uber wealthy who have the capability and desire to chase that last couple of percent. Even that group of buyers is maximizing their ROI…….They may have a different set of value requirements than you or me. Peace. 

Ghdprentice

not looking to start a war of words but I am curious if all the “smart Americans” share all your exact view on things? 

Mahjister, normalcy and consistency do not necessarily mean “ never changing”. Things can clearly get out of balance and require corrections. Full disclosure- I fear the uber-wealthy may fight against recalibration- but haven’t they always? As long as the masses can organize their collective thoughts and mobilize for change it can happen. 

Possibly I am naive; I recall equipment that was out of my range from the time I was making minimum wage to now being a 1 percenter. In virtually every product there is segmentation. Maybe the difference is the mass marketers exited high end. But I have mass marketed receivers that are exceptional; so maybe they just decided the market for that final 2-3% wasn’t large enough to invest. Class warfare was difficult when I was poor; it’s equally disturbing now that I am not. 
 

on the subject of banks- society needs normalization and consistency- or it is a free for all. No question things can favor the elites. But even the poorest have benefitted. I am living proof 

Thank you thecarpathian. I have extreme faith in humanity. Rarely get to post but enjoy reading the banter.  The flu has provided me some additional time in my calendar 🙃

Today, in between Teams calls with folks around the world, I streamed a wide variety of the sweetest, most crystal clear music, much from Lee Ritenauer (sp). Possibly a master plot to control my destiny is underway, but I am going to focus on  life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If it all goes to hell, I can grow vegetables and fish in my lake for food- but I will sure miss that music. Chin up my friends; we are all going to be ok.