Breakdown of audio investment

.....I should also note that it surprised me to see that I had about $10K mostly in various "wires"-- but, it works for me. Craig

It seems that Newbee and I were posting the same thought at the same time. Great minds run along similar channels-- right? Cheers. Craig

I've done this before in threads here on A'Gon, but not recently:
1. Speakers--------------- 27%
2. Transport + DAC-------- 27%
3. Amp + Pre-amp---------- 18%
4. Dedicated AC system----- 3%
5. CDR & Tuner------------- 3%
6. Rack-------------------- 2%
7. ICs, spkr cables, Active
Shielding, power cords,
and tweaks---------------20%
Cheers. Craig

Mephisto; it seems to me that if you have a $5K system, 40% ($2000.) would be a LOT for wires, racks, tweaks etc., IMO, as it leaves less money for good quality speakers, main components etc. But if you have a $50K system, $20K or 40% for wires and tweaks might seem a little excessive, but at this price level it still leaves plenty of bucks for high quality primary components and speakers.

So it's kind of relative to the total value of your system. Because they (usually) cost less per unit, it seems easier to buy wires and tweaks etc., than high bucks major components.

In going through this exercise, I see I have about 25% in wires, rack, and tweaks and I don't consider it excessive (most is in wires)-- this is based on a low $40sK system (MSRP). In fact I think it was money well spent-- just my perspective. Cheers. Craig.