More expensive = better?

honashagen

I used to have a DNA-1 for 20 years and it died. Wonderful amplifier. I made the terrible mistake of not keeping it to be rebuilt, because the latest amp mods that SMc is doing, including their "gravity base" system, is said to yield extraordinary results. I am looking for a dead or dying DNA-1 (for $500 or less) to send to Steve to have rebuilt.

If you had your DNA-1 upgraded with the Gravity Base, I think you would have a hard time getting better sound without spending a LOT more money. FWIW.

FWIW

I was considering  Bel Canto e1x integrated.

It's not just about cost it's also about the sound the particular designer is trying to achieve. That may or may not jibe with your ears, a more expensive piece of gear can be objectively better but subjectively worse.

Incredible that people think they listen to an amplifier.... For sure they sound different but most of what we listen to relate to the room acoustic coupling with the speakers...

Money dont buy audio experience with upgrading gear...

Acoustic do....

I dont say that acoustic is important i say it is essential....

Yes,  but there's a catch. 

Not all $8k integrateds sound the same. There are $8k integrateds disguised to look like $8k but sound like $2k so you've got to do some picking.