Why Is Hi Fi Gear So Darn Expensive?

My own approach, to anything and not just hifi gear, is to start with a budget and then decide how much of that budgeted amount to spend on components.  I have long heard that speakers are so important that one should spend half of the budget on the speakers alone.  If my budget for the system is $10,000 and I spend half of that on speakers, I have a choice of some nice speakers but it doesn’t leave much for the rest of the system — likely, the most realistic approach would be to limit my system to speakers, an integrated or separate amp/preamp with built-in DAC, and source (say, streamer or CD).  I didn’t spend half on speakers, so they had to be “good enough” and the same with the rest of the equipment.  Then, as many do here, upgrade the weakest link over time to gradually improve the entire system.

I don’t deceive myself that I will ever own (likely not even hear), the top of line components — they are out of my budget.  I enjoy looking at things like the Dan D’Agostino monoblocks, but those are a dream, nothing more. I enjoy what I have and enjoy reading about what others have.  More power to them.  

@bob540 😁

That is the way to go. Just for fun, go to an high end audio dealer… listen to their best. It is fun, and inspiring. Over time, you can slowly move up your aspirations as your means increase.

For me, now retired, my system is a constant source of enjoyment. I worked slowly and consciously towards this for decades. 

I always seek to listen to and emulate “the best”. 

Well about the only way to actually reduce prices is to cut out the middle man.  Also known as your local brick and mortar dealer.  As we all know many brands have gone that route to be more competitive in the marketplace.

But then we are left with that type of shopping experience and support etc.

It is really expensive operating both a manufacturing business and a retail shop these days folks, especially in locations where the $ and potential sales are - big cities.

As a business owner, I am not surprised at all with much of the pricing.  The real question is do enough people feel there is enough of a ROI.  At some price point one would think a buyer would want to experience the product, at least a little, before dropping big $ on a piece....but maybe not.

...Because there are stupid people with stupid money.  It's as simple as that.