Anyone (everyone) care to throw a dart?

@arizonabob I too have pondered this very thing from time to time. I feel like you get to a certain price point (not entirely sure what the number is though I guess it's different for everyone depending on what you can afford) where to get the slightest bit more detail (for lack of a better word) from your system, you literally have to pay double what you have already spent. The question then becomes are you willing to go there. Using speakers for example, I currently have Dynaudio Evoke 50's. To get to the next level I'd have to move up to Contour 60i which are literally double the price of Evoke 50's. How much better can it get, double thereby equaling the cost? For me no way. Not possible. Are the 60's better, have more detail, soundstage, etc? I am quite sure even though I have never heard them, but I can't afford them so I don't even think about going there. Regardless I'm happy as a clam with my Evoke 50's. But I totally get your post as I too have had that same thoughts...

If pragmatism is your main concern and you can afford the expense, I think your concern is irrelevant and, ultimately, non sensical. It seems to me that as we age and our hearing gets worse, that this is precisely the time to compensate for our hearing’s diminished resolving ability by investing in equipment that is capable of MORE resolution and refinement. 50% of 100 is more than 50% of 80. No?

Thank you @kingbr, I was trying to inject a bit of levity into a discussion here, that's the reason I didn't specify an amp or speakers or cable. Thought maybe somebody would share an experience they themselves had or thoughts along the same line as @kingbr did.  Sarcasm and indignation however reigned. Lighten up, have fun and don't be so thin skinned.  Out

What a coincidence, I was trying to inject a little levity and that is why I didn't specify an amp or speakers or cable. The secret of comedy is out. Seinfeld ran decades and did you notice? Never once did Jerry specify an amp or speakers or cable. Not once! Have not seen comic genius like that until now. arizonabob you got me in stitches.

OK, there's the sarcasm (what a surprise it's your MC) now c'mon how about some righteous indignation...