Best Component Ever, for the money

Trends Audio 10.1 integrated amp. I have had other integrated amps like the Rega Brio 3, Krell KAV-300i, and Cambridge Audio 540C V.2, and this tiny thing keeps up very well with them all. I would not say that it sounds better, but it sounds very close at a fraction of the cost.

JBL Paragon, a design classic

Oppo upconverting universal DVD/SACD/CD/DVD-A player for under $200.

I'm a bit surprised that no one has mentioned the Rega RB-300 tonearm. In my experience, the 300 is significantly better than anything cheaper (other than maybe the 250). Caveat-I obviously haven't heard everything out there, but I have heard a lot.

The general idea - simplicity at the expense of flexibility, coupled with superior manufacturing - is well suited to this thread. Although those needing azimuth or integral VTA may downgrade it, IMHO the RB-300 is, irrespective of price, a tremendous product.

It's also worth noting that the 300 has spawned a full blown cottage industry - probably unmatched by any other high end product. Modifiers, oem applications, and even Rega's own line of arms all sprang from the loins of this product (do arms have loins?). IMHO, it's got to be on the short list for this honor.

Vintage Sansui sp-5500's....one of the all time greats! They just don't make them like they use to anymore!