What's the greatest bargain in SET these days?

It is not likely that the ultra expensive gear can ever be considered "the greatest bargain" in a field where diminishing returns so clearly applies. However, one could make a case that a great value is that piece of equipment that delivers the level of performance one seeks, regardless of relative price. What I mean is that pinching pennies to buy something that does not fully satisfy is never a bargain. It is by definition a waste of money.

Since 1990, I have owned a total of nine different amplifiers. The coincident franks are head and shoulders above them all, including amps that cost more. I wouldn't consider replacing them with anything, unless Coincident releases a Mk III model. For me, the value proposition is extremely high. I suppose if one demands top tier performance, and ones price range is 5-20K, then one could certainly consider the Franks a bargain.

In my estimation, the dynamo, at 1.3K is a great bargain with an insanely good value proposition. On sonics alone, it easily matched my 9K retail Cary 500.1 MB amps. It is fortunate that I bought the Franks before the dynamo, otherwise, I might have foolishly denied myself the opportunity to enjoy what top tier performance delivers. My frugal Scottish blood curdles every time I spend big bucks on audio gear.

I would love for someone who knows what they are doing to dissect the Franks and render a judgment on how much of the value proposition is based on physics and how much is based on business. With the Franks, are we seeing a brilliant design delivering better performance with lower cost, or are we seeing Coincident's business model permitting a focus on design as opposed to marketing? My guess is that the extraordinary value in the Coincident line depends on both physics and business. Whatever the answer is, it is clear Mr. Blume is doing something right.

" However, one could make a case that a great value is that piece of equipment that delivers the level of performance one seeks, regardless of relative price."

No doubt that's pretty much it.

I think there are differences in how to go about it though. You can start small and then improve by increments until you hit your target. That's how I tend to work.

Or you can start with a big investment with the cost perceived as the insurance policy and go from there as needed. But in this case you will never know what might have been achievable for less. Ones bank account balance ( or perhaps even credit rating though personally I would not borrow money for any luxury item like this) is likely a good determining factor for where one will start.

But to truly find the best value, you have to stat small and make moves only when needed to hit your target.

Of course you also have to know what the target is. To do that, I listen to as much live music as possible and also the best "reference" systems that I am able to. Then at least I know what is or is not possible as well as what sound I like best.

Hello Bill,
Good post and interesting points regarding value. From time to time I've wondered in admiration how Israel is able to offer such excellent sounding components for such reasonable cost. I have owned a Symphonic Line amplifier and a custom 100 watt push pull 6550/KT 88 amplifier. Both were very good, the Frankenstein is a better sounding and much more rewarding amplifier without question. Having lived with all three of these amps, the Frankenstein is in a different league in terms of natural character, emotional involvement and realism. Bill I completely relate to your personal amplifier journey and outcome based on your Frankenstein experience.
Charles,

Bill,
For additional perspective read Hmiguel's system page(Tripoint Audio owner and builder) for comments regarding his new( 2 days ago) CLS. Keep in mind he is using his ultra level Tripoint products and has the esteemed Robert Koda preamp in his fabulous system. We aren't alone in our opinions.
Charles,

Mikirob ;
I must've missed it , what preamp are you using with the Dynamo .

Thanks