Heads Up: ARC is introducing the new SP-20 in Fall

Bifwynne, atta boy!

I'm surprised no one says anything about the price. I guess in today's market you have to be rich to own ARC gear. I can't afford any of their new gear. I do own ARC gear but I purchased it used. It still wasn't cheap but I figure it should hold it's value pretty good so it's still a good buy used.

Taters, my OP responds to your point: "MSRP is $9000 -- a veritable bargain. ;-( "

I agree with your comment that ARC gear isn't cheap. And like you, I purchase gear that is either preowned or "refurbed" (i.e., gear that ARC used as a show or dealer demo).

I usually pay about 60-65% of MSRP. My "new" Ref 150 is a preowned unit that only had about 1000 hours on it. That's great because the prior owner broke the Ref 150 in for me. ;-)

Bruce

It is always interesting to me when people complain about the prices of components. Most times, they don't know too much about how things are designed (R&D), components are procurred, or construction. Not to mention the company's overhead. However, you are correct, even though I am an Engineer and know how these things work, I still see prices that are stupidly high. My logic is, just don't buy it if I think it is too high. Same for cars, clothes, and just about anything else. Why worry about it and stress myself out? Just walk away with a smile. I like the quality of Audio Research's equipment. They know their stuff. So, right now the REF 250 amps are out of my price range. But the day is young. One never knows do one? as the saying goes. But the real question should be, are you getting what you pay for? An object, equipment, car, house, art, etc. is worth exactly what a person is willing to pay for it. So, all thing considering, like Overhead, design/R&D costs, construction costs, estimated number of units to sell, etc. a company will set their price point and run with it. It's kind of funny how you really don't see people compaining about car prices. They think a Mercedes is actually worth what the dealer is asking. I see no difference between that and a "high end" piece of audio equipment. Sometimes you do get what you pay for. Sometimes. Audio Research = quality audio equipment.

enjoy

08-28-13: Minorl
"But the real question should be, are you getting what you pay for? An object, equipment, car, house, art, etc. is worth exactly what a person is willing to pay for it."

Great point Minorl - there is a price point for everyone, that's why there are so many models in a line and so much innovation. Newer, bigger, heavier and lots of marketing doesn't always mean better, or better for me! The good news in our hobby is diminishing returns sets in fairly quick.