Why Is Hi Fi Gear So Darn Expensive?

My take is with the growing number of multi millionaires/billionaires, high end products of any kind, not just in audio, can be priced at whatever that market will pay. The end result is the masses are losing, the real high tech stuff is now out of their reach. Bottom line is the rich is killing it for the average folks without even realizing it. But all is not lost, there is still enough worthy audio equipment out there that can satisfy our thirst for sound without spending six figures or more. In my experience, don't buy for the name, the hype or the fancy designs, rather look purely for value, it still exists as my system proves.

Thyname…the difference between a VW and a Ferrari is profound and obvious via all senses. Many (including me) would say the difference between a $2k amp and a $20k amp is very subtle and indistinguishable by many, save for the aesthetics. So, not a realistic analogy IMHO.

Here’s an odd analogy, but one that hits close to home. We use an old school veterinarian who argues that most vets prices prevent people from properly caring for their animals. Charge a reasonable price for appropriate and effective service and people will care for their pets. The analogy?  Extreme high margins restrict the public from a hobby that might otherwise attract a much larger audience who will buy equipment to further be exposed to an even larger audience. But alas…I doubt that’s the objective. 

@chocaholic : my analogy VW vs. a Ferrari had nothing to do with performance. Only cost / price. In other words, Ferrari is unaffordable to me, therefore, I don’t test drive it, because I simply cannot afford to buy it. I only look at the car makes and models I can afford.

Many (including me) would say the difference between a $2k amp and a $20k amp is very subtle and indistinguishable by many, save for the aesthetics. So, not a realistic analogy IMHO.

Then what’s the problem? If you are so sure about the indistinguishable difference between a $2,000 and a $20,000 amp, obviously buy the $2,000 amp and call it a day. Problem solved. No reason to sweat about the price / value of the $20,000 amp

Again, Price has nothing to do with sound.  Can someone make something as good or better for less, why sure.  There a differences though depending on who makes the product.

I imagine no body here has tried to manufacturer anything and sell it in a competitive market.  It is not so easy.  Everyone has an opinion on everything and most likely, no body has had the opportunity to do extensive comparisons using different components,

Try designing something, marketing something, getting parts, boxes, reviews, etc.  What do you think that costs?  No one in audio is getting rich, at least not many.  That is why some of the favorite manufacturers are out of business today.

BUT there are high priced components that actually do sound much better.  That I can prove. Our listening room is open in Northern New Jersey if anyone wants to come a play.

Happy Listening.

I never understood $100K amps, $250K speakers, $50K streamers.. Yet, I am totally ok with it. It's called capitalism..  The market will sort itself out in the long run !