What does 90% of the Absolute Best Sound Cost?


Like many things, I have come to believe that the cost of incremental improvements in audio come at exponentially increasing costs - e.g., big improvement from $5K to $10K, less so from $10 to $15K, etc. All of us have our limits regarding what we can/will spend to achieve our best possible/practical audio experience. So, a couple of questions that I am sure are at least somewhat subjective.

A. What does it cost, in terms of components, interconnects, and direct furnishings (e.g., racks, isolation pads, surface room treatments, etc.) to achieve 90% of the absolute best sound possible?

B. What % does $50,000 get you?

FWIW, my setup is at about $21,000 actual cost ($32,000 original retail) and I am really happy with it right now. All of my incremental spend for the next couple of years is going to be working the room itself. Looking forward to your perspectives!

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Depends on room size and specifics.  For a smaller room the world is your oyster in that price range. 

Depends on room size and specifics. For a smaller room the world is your oyster in that price range.   Don’t waste money paying more without getting what you have set up optimally first as needed. 

It's not just equipment.  The best sound requires a dedicated custom built listening room of an appropriate size.  That could cost you $250k plus just by itself.  Spend anywhere from 100 to 200% of that sum on equipment.  90% of that sound quality could probably run $200k.  Getting the room right allows the equipment to show their true capabilities.

I would ask my wife what a 50K hifi gear would get me, and I am pretty sure she would say "divorce"