Have you reached your end point with this addictive hobby?

"Need funds badly for a new needle !” LOL 

..many interpretations of this phrase tho..

Great discussion.great article.some humor.enjoy the physics and experiments in music.enjoy what you have no watter what the source.records ,cd,live,streaming.dont worry be happy ,I think it's a song.

Not done yet. When I retire in 5 years, the system will have to shrink. An amp that has 2 huge heavy units, a sizable preamp, large dac, streamer and 2 big floor speakers will be too large for retirement home. I love it and it has taught me a lot about what I love and what I need a little more of. Future system will have 2 kick ass small speakers and 2 subs. Perhaps an integrated amp as well. But that’s down the line. Right now I’m loving what I have. 

I retired in 2019. A couple of years ago, I purchased an LTA microZOTL v2 pre amp. It works very well with my system. Other than upgrading their tubes and buying tubes for my PS Audio BHK250 power amp, I’m done. It was a fun and expensive ride while it lasted.

It helps to have little money for this. Works as a sort of safeguard. Doesn't address the core of things, though.

Personally, on average I spend about $1500 a year on equipment, including tubes. And I have maintained this figure for years. I have spend about $6.5k in the last two years, so..unless something breaks and can't be repaired there is nothing I can buy in the next 2.5-3 years. Not that I feel the need. There is a wish but there is no need.