At what price is one considered an Audiophile.

+1, @edgyhassle - To put it another way: "I refuse to belong to any club that would have me as a member." - Groucho Marx

Cost is only relevant to those who want to discuss prices and costs, trying to impress others. Has nothing to do with being an audiophile. Nothing at all. Past a certain point it's not about music any more, it becomes a quest to impress others and most of us don't care.

I think this question needs to broken into 2 segments:

"Audiophile": the biological entity (the person)

"Audiophile system": the hardware

The "audiophile" person would possess the following attributes:

- a "more sensitive antenna" than the "average" person related to the perception of sound quality attributes as a result of extended living, learning, and experiencing music (live and reproduced) in various venues

- an expanded vocabulary related to the above. The ability to articulate those experiences (good and not-so-good) in terms shared by others with similar "pedigree." Openly invite others and particate in meaningful conversations.

- an excellent working knowledge of system architecture, room acoustics, and application of current products and services to obtain outstanding sonic results.

- an awareness of the areas where one’s system excels, as well as it’s limitations. The acceptance, or rejection, of those flaws is system dependent related to the sonic goals of the system (Reference, background, mobile, office, outdoor,space/budget dependent, etc)

- frequently engages in any and all things related to "the hobby": forums, events (live and reproduced), reference materials, product reviews, blogs, etc.

- most likely invests a higher percentage of disposable income in "the hobby" than the "average" person. But, is not a steadfast rule.

- may, or may not own an "audiophile system." Or no system at all.

The "audiophile system":

- a system that would pass a credible "pier review" test with others deeply embedded in "the hobby" based on it’s ability to fulfill a particular purpose. Sorry, but a musically satisfying system for the owner that sounds like %^@# is not an "audiophlle system." "Price" would be measured on the scale of investment vs achievement of sonic goals. Some need to get off a few "exits" before others in this area.

Side notes:

A guy who takes a chainsaw and cuts an opening in his front doorway of his shack so he can get a pair of Altec Voice of the Theaers inside, might be an "audiophile." (Actually had a customer who did this)

A guy/gal who installs a car audio system in a vehicle that is worth more than the vehicle. (Actually had a "club" that met this criteria back in the day)

Most of you guys are right-money spent has nothing to do with it.  It's all in your head.  An audiophile is not the guy with the best music system, it's the guy who can sit down and enjoy what he has, probably tweaks speaker placement often to make sure he's not missing anything.  (I am that way with my chair).  And every time a new component enters the system, he marvels at the improved sound.......

@bigtwin maybe some day, maybe not.