Why Are People So Concerned About How Others Spend Their Money?

The only reason to obsess over crazy spending would be if there were people who didn't have enough food or shelter or medicine to have a minimally decent life. At that point, I could understand the judgement's basis. (It could be moral or religious, for example.)

"Springsteen just sold out for 500 million.  If he sold for 1 million, he'd be a fool."

Well not really. Before the Sony buyout he was worth over 500 million, not fool's money. He is 72 years old and the buyout is a great way to prepare his estate for the inevitable. He certainly doesn't need the income and his tax exposure will be substantial. It is a good move for a person of his wealth to prevent the "Prince" syndrome, who didn't even have a will. That estate is just a mess.

The wife and I each worked for over 50 years. We had no kids and invested heavily . When I turned 70 she told me to go buy that Porsche I had always wanted. I hesitated because I did not want to come across as pretentious. My neighbor said WGAF..! I bought it and enjoyed it for almost 4 years and just sold it for almost what I paid for it. I can afford high end audio and and have a very nice setup. No one sees or knows what it cost and I rarely mention what I have on this website because there are those that like to say what an idiot you are for buying this or that. Better to just lurk in the background. 

I never consider audio attract attention by people as money hobby. I have nice boat that attract attention like sport car. Many time before tournament lady and friends ask to come on boat to party. My wife know that she beautiful smart art director and high end circus performer and has twin sister has no worries but I still need be careful with what I see people attract to. Never see stereo system as something jealousy item.

Hey, whatever floats ones boat and brings you happiness :-)