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When does the law diminishing returns kick in?

As I go through these threads reading responses I will look at the systems from answer writers. Wow, some of you guys don't mess around. As a music lover and audio guy myself (since the late 60s) I can't help but be envious.
Although my system is modest, especially compared to some, I get a lot of enjoyment listening to music on it. It took a while and a lot of trial and error to get what seems right to me. But when looking at the super systems here it makes me wonder what I'm missing. With the exception of deeper bass, am I missing all that much? How much would I have to spend to hear real (worthwhile) improvement?
timrhu
panderso
156 posts
 
Well put Garyk! Does that ever hit home.

Sage counsel, Gregm.
mrvordo's avatar
mrvordo
151 posts
 
When do diminishing returns kick in? ….. Immediately of course, but every upgrade can be worth it to you. You have to decide when you have had enough, but you can always improve the system. It may start taking a 4K investment to give you the “step up” that a 1K investment used to, but that’s the diminishing returns thing. Spend what you are comfortable with and enjoy the music. There is always better and more expensive out there if you want to keep on.
cdc
1,796 posts
 
If you don't need high volumes and or a large room to fill with sound:
1) Amp: $350
2) Pre-amp; Volume pot ~$20.00
3) CDP: $500
4) Monitor speakers: $500
5) Tuner $300
6) Wires, etc. $80.00

TOTAL: $1,750.00

Of course, YMMV.

Also if you get into tubes, vinyl, or have a big room to fill with bass flat to 20hz that number could be $10,000 easy.
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
"Audiophile Development Costs"; Everyone decides how much they want to invest.
tmsorosk
1,013 posts
 
The law of diminished returns starts at the very lowest level . Although I don't no how important that really is if you enjoy music . In the end I haven't regretted a single purchase , most now go into five digits each . Buyers remorse stops when the music starts .
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