Law Of Diminishing Returns?

@nonoise post rings so true. I do not have the resources to get to the point of DR, so when I make an investment, it usually is a net, net gain for me. Meaning it is well thought out and researched.

Whenever I see the use of the phrase, the law of diminishing returns, it’s usually in a review and meant to assuage the reader that he need not buy the item under review as it’s really not much better than what he already has or is willing to spend.

Apparently, it doesn’t work.

"is a wagyu ribeye 4x better than a choice ribeye"?

Yes.

Audio equipment?...To me...not so much after you reach a certain level...

Don’t ever buy a new car, its value drops 30% the second you drive it off the lot! Same thing with hifi, but if you want new and exciting with a full warranty, you’ll buy new. 

Certainly buy runout gear, examples Focal Clear phones $2200, bought for $800, Audio Physic Speakers $5700 bought for $2900, Cayin tube amp $3600 bought for $1900 there are plenty out there. I rarely pay more than 60% for anything. 

For someone who's never had anything but a clock radio or boom box, an Acoustimass 5 system would probably sound sublime. For someone who is well off, a $30,000 amp may be the starting point. In other words, there is no magic dollar level where the sound improves in a largely noticeable manner.