Its done all the time provided you know what you want and whats available that can give it to you. There are a lot of "sleepers" out there. For example, right now in the for sale ads there is a pair of amps and a pair of speakers (two seperate ad's) which for a total of 4500 would give hugh value to someone, but since they are not well known to the average user the seller will have a hard time moving them and the average buyer will pay 2 to 3x and not improve on quality or sound (different, perhaps). Thats why researching the internet in general is of such great value. You can get some great leads from end users about what works and how things may really sound.
Best Downgrades you've done
Like many in this hobby, I've learned (the hard way) that more $ doesn't necessarily translate into better sound. On a couple of key areas, I have traded in the "hot" product for a "sleeper" replacement and was very happy witht the result. Here are two examples:
1. Exchanged a PS Audio P300 for a Balanced Power Technology BPjr. The latter provided a smoother, darker background, and just let my gear do its thing. And it's less than half the size. Net savings: $350.00.
2. Exchanged Acoustic Zen Reference Matrix MK-2s for an older pair of Nordost Red Dawns. Connected b/n the CDP and the pre, this combination provided a much more balanced sound with a lot less "in-your-face" presentation. Net savings: $100.00.
All of this gear was used, purchased here on Audiogon.
Of course, I realize that "individual results may vary," but I'm curious to know if anyone else has had success with actually spending less money for particular components. Thanks!
1. Exchanged a PS Audio P300 for a Balanced Power Technology BPjr. The latter provided a smoother, darker background, and just let my gear do its thing. And it's less than half the size. Net savings: $350.00.
2. Exchanged Acoustic Zen Reference Matrix MK-2s for an older pair of Nordost Red Dawns. Connected b/n the CDP and the pre, this combination provided a much more balanced sound with a lot less "in-your-face" presentation. Net savings: $100.00.
All of this gear was used, purchased here on Audiogon.
Of course, I realize that "individual results may vary," but I'm curious to know if anyone else has had success with actually spending less money for particular components. Thanks!