??? Where Does "High End" Start ???

It starts when you figure out what kind of sound you like and are able to match your components so they work well together. If you go by price, you lose. Price can't tell you anything about how a component sounds. For example, if you need 2 components and have a budget of $1000 for each one, that's exactly what you are going to get. 2 components that cost $1000 each. If you know what type of sound you like and know how to select your components, $500 for one and $1500 for the other may be a much better option for you. The more you know, the less you have to spend (within reason). 

@toddain, you have the best answer!  I think the key is not to worry about high/mid/low, but to just enjoy what you have, to learn and explore, and to appreciate the music.  There is always a newer, shinier, object out there. 

audiotroy

high end is not about price it is intention: if you are building components where features are more important then build quality not high end vs components where parts quality and sound quality are paramount you are high end 

+1. 

“High end” isn’t midfi. Full stop.

High end is a state of mind. It’s what thrills you as your nirvana sound. It’s requires effort, time and money. To some a $200K system/room is unnecessary and/or is unthinkable and to some money isn’t the issue.. 

A Bugatti is high end auto in the uppermost price range. A ford Escape is a car in the lower price range. Both will get you around over to the in laws. Now just aplly that thinking to audio, watches, closing and everything. Whatever floats your boat. Toot. Toot. 

When EVERYTHING matters.