I think it has a lot to do with finding a way to get their existing customer base to trade up and spend more money. Let's face it, the former reference level gear is already at a pretty high level. That owner may be pulled to another brand to get to the next level, unless a new uber level is offered in the same brand.
I do think there is the potential for trickle down technology, so the next generation of mid priced gear will sound better than former flagships.
The examples I know of are the Pass XP10 and XP15 each sounding better than the former flagships X 0.2 and XONO for lower prices. Also, the Magico S1 and Q1 are supposedly better sounding than the former Mini2 at lower prices.
But there is no denying that there are buyers out there who have the discretionary funds to pay whatever is asked for this latest generation of gear.
I also think the surge of expensive phono amps is related to the escalating prices of cartridges and turntables.
I do think there is the potential for trickle down technology, so the next generation of mid priced gear will sound better than former flagships.
The examples I know of are the Pass XP10 and XP15 each sounding better than the former flagships X 0.2 and XONO for lower prices. Also, the Magico S1 and Q1 are supposedly better sounding than the former Mini2 at lower prices.
But there is no denying that there are buyers out there who have the discretionary funds to pay whatever is asked for this latest generation of gear.
I also think the surge of expensive phono amps is related to the escalating prices of cartridges and turntables.