What are/were the best sounding cheap components you have ever had?

All of the vintage CD players equipped with the Philips TDA1541A DAC that I’ve owned: 3 Magnavox models (all gifted to appreciative non-audiophool friends) and the Philips CD40 I have now. Honorable Mention goes to the Sumiko Blue Point Special and the original NHT Super Zero speakers.

- Shure A86A step up transformer. $125. 
- BBE 282ri sonic maximizer. $75.

The BlueMeHD DAC, Shitt unpowered preamp, and 1984 Crown PS 200 amp. Under $300 for whole rat rod rig :)

Eminent Technology LFT 8 speakers. $750 a pair direct from manufacturer. They need big power so you’re gonna spend on the power amps.

Used Studer A80 two track quarter inch $2000. Back when analog tape recorders were being dumped. Prolly the price has gone up.

Around 10 years ago I bought my current Vincent SA 31MK hybrid tube preamp.  It has always been good especially when paired with the matching power amplifier the SP 331 MK. I went and bought it in a B stock sale, I was updating from my Rotel preamp in my second system .  I actually bought the SA 31 list $1399 for $699. When I got it home it was not the same as on the box. It looked slightly different and had a remote control. I thought at first is was simply a Mk 2 version however eventually I went to Vincent site and found out its a totally different amp.  The store was very local, less than 5 minutes drive. I went back and saw the young salesperson who seemed confused, however it could well have been embarrassment, he told be there were no B stock SA 31 MK's and  A stock was $1699. I said what should I do.  He went out the back, returned and  said it's the last one we are not a dealer anymore, it's easier for us if you keep it. Still got it.