I could happily upgrade forever, but I have hit some big limitations, mostly in $$$. Upgrading my system would be in the tens of thousands of dollars. And I'm not simply spending my money. I have a wife who wants a new car but will most probably not buy it, especially with the new tariffs. A daughter who is always in financial trouble and granddaughters who need money for college.
Then energy comes into the equation. I'm 78. Not an old 78, but I no longer have the energy or interest to haunt stereo shops all over Los Angeles. I've done that for years and no longer want to listen to systems I can't afford.
When my friends, who are not poor, hear how much I spent on my new speakers or turntable, they already think I've blown a gasket. How much would it cost to improve on my VPI Prime Signature 21? Would I hear the difference if I spent $20 or $30K on a new turntable? It would all be insane in the world I live in.
How much happier would I be if I sold my ARC PH-7 and spent $20K plus on ARC's latest Reference 3 SE? I would be very unhappy because I would have to do it without my wife's agreement. In other words, it's not happening.
If I were alone and rich and could buy any piece of equipment my heart desired, would I be happier? We all know the answer. No. I want good audio, but I also want a life. End of the audiophile story,