Not if you go about it in a smart and cost conscience manner and filter out the hype. As an experiment, I just successfully replaced gear that sold for 9k about 12 years ago with a new unit that cost only 3K. Just be aware of all the options out there. If you rely on this site only, chances are whatever sound you end up with may cost more. Plenty of affordable gear out there these days that can deliver sound worthy of the label “high end”. |
I think the upper end of the high end maybe even the “vanilla” version of the high end has gotten stupid expensive. But at the same time one can assemble a great system for not too much of a cost nowadays, as well. What’s really crazy is you can connect a pair of inexpensive IEMs ($200-$300) to your phone and get absolutely mind-boggling good sound! |
The price is gonna go up as long as there are people willing (and looking forward to) paying more. Simple as that. Time for the Green Eyed Monster to take a walk. All the best, |
