Latest Absolute Sound

Some manufacturers are selling a few units each year at mega bucks to keep things going. People are willing to buy them. Reviewers are willing get these demos for 6 months at a time

February issue has Constellation, Hegel and NAD Master Series.
Gee, haven't ever seen those brands in TAS before.
That rag is a disgrace.
Like I said before, reading TAS is like being a spice enthusiast and reading about salt and pepper.
Same old, same old.

I still say we (common) audiophiles need the SOTA gear strictly for its trickle down effect(s) for the rest of us. Personally, I would never need nor require a system more than $100K.

Though I am sure that there are rich audiophiles that can purchase the ultra expensive components and get the most out of them , I can’t help but think many of the rich buying much of same are doing so more because they can, than due to knowing what they are looking for in a system and know how to get there.

I believe much of this hobby is in the knowing of ones preferences, and understanding how to achieve the most toward them within any budget. 

Mesch,
That was very well said. 
J. :)