Price is not the arbiter of good sound. Smart buys and common sense help. Listening to and tuning your rig are critical factors in getting the best from your source. The most important thing is a great recording. I guarantee you a 1967 Audiophile Records Doc Evans record on my system will out-perform an average digital track on a million dollar setup all day every day.
Anyone (everyone) care to throw a dart?
I understand my hearing at 69 isn't even close to what it was at 19. I'm sure your results may vary. However, anyone care to throw a dart at the price point where diminishing return kicks in? There must be one out there. Regards, AB