I had a manufacturer tell me once its way easier to market to the supper rich and sell 50 pieces at $50k profit then 50000 pieces at $500 profit. Just the logistics and service requirements can be daunting as the quantity sold increases. So, they chose to sell expensive systems to the few to avoid the other huge logistic costs, servicing (post and presale) of selling to the masses. I think this may get some into hot water as the markets slow due to other issues going on i.e COVID, tariffs, slowing markets etc.
Also, the over pricing of gear is getting obvious to most of us, especially if you have a technical background. Looking inside an expensive piece and seeing similar parts quality as much less expensive pieces gets you thinking what am I paying for. I don’t think the cost to design etc, statement is holding up anymore. There really aren’t much for new designs in the audio market other then maybe some digital systems, and some newer amp designs like class d.