Systems over $100k

I’m curious as to whether anyone has (or had) a $100k+ system for whom an upgrade entailed lowering the $$ value of the system.

For example, you found that some piece of equipment was not right for the system and a lower priced unit actually increased the sonic achievements. Or a used unit.

Or perhaps moved from an elaborate, expensive system to one which was more right-sized for your ears, room, etc.?

my system is over $100k (rather not estimate the investment). just a month ago upgraded my digital dac and server--Wadax (new gear not yet noted on my audiogon system page). but here is a link to info on my new digital.

https://www.whatsbestforum.com/threads/wadax-reference-dac-and-server-arrive.34173/

i do have some enhancements in-bound for my vinyl playback. new cartridges and a new tonearm.

my system has been static as far as amps/preamp/speakers and room/acoustics for 6 years now (took me 10 years in my dedicated purpose built room to get it right but that part is done). but i’m about to retire so wanted to get the sources optimized while i can still make the money to pay for them.

overall love to listen to my system for hours every day. brings me joy and is very satisfying.

I broke $100k on my system early last year after retiring.  I replaced everything but my speakers and turntable last year.  I planned to replace my speakers early this year but after changing out electronics, running dedicated power lines, adding the AQ Niagara, adding a wood floor with wool rugs, adding acoustic treatments and a month of concerted effort to get the bass right with subs and speaker placement; new speakers are no longer a priority.  I have also made several tweaks that turned out very well.  Not all tweaks turn out well but that is part of the fun of discovery.  I also have a new turntable being built right now.  I expect my system to be stable after this final equipment change.

It is true that the room is an integral part of the stereo system.  I am fortunate to have a large den and so was able to dedicate the room to the stereo.  The biggest lesson this past year was how to get the bass right.  Even after room treatments and adding a 7/8" wood floor it still took me a month of effort to finally get the bass to sound as good as what I heard on a very expensive pair of speakers at the store.

All I want to do now is listen to music.  I noted that the tube timer on my preamp showed 1300 hours after one year.  That's 3.6 hours/day on average.  The longest I seem to be able to go without turning the stereo on is about two days.  I guess I am getting good value from my stereo.

I will never exceed $50k where I am at now. 
 

If I do I will have sell one of my 4 motorcycles, that is my contract with my wife.