Great responses.
I would just add two things. I can't think of a worthier place to "start" upgrading than the analogue front end.
Second, I think it is pointless to proclaim a point at which the price is "ridiculous" and below which it is reasonable. That is obviously purely subjective. The pursuit of excellence in any field is something that with any luck will never end. The sense of balance in this pursuit is predicated completely on context which is by definition personal. Whether it is worth it to a given person to devote his life to breaking an Olympic record is their choice. At what cost is always a good question. Just be sure to answer that question honestly and then look at how you can pay that cost "effectively."
I would just add two things. I can't think of a worthier place to "start" upgrading than the analogue front end.
Second, I think it is pointless to proclaim a point at which the price is "ridiculous" and below which it is reasonable. That is obviously purely subjective. The pursuit of excellence in any field is something that with any luck will never end. The sense of balance in this pursuit is predicated completely on context which is by definition personal. Whether it is worth it to a given person to devote his life to breaking an Olympic record is their choice. At what cost is always a good question. Just be sure to answer that question honestly and then look at how you can pay that cost "effectively."