Law Of Diminishing Returns?

The "value" curve may not be linear, but neither is our perception of pleasure. Many try to approach 2ch system building like they’re choosing car insurance. Not me. I get too excited by the nuances of different gear, and what unique sonic perspectives they provide, compounded by their complex interactions with other components.

A few of my most expensive purchases have busted the "pleasure" curve, thereby rendering arbitrary percentages and diminishing returns meaningless. They also tend to stick around a lot longer here than most budget "giant killer" components.

+1 @jjss49 

Perhaps, OP, your rich buddy got rich because he mainly likes spending money, not seeking quality.

I can take a swag at it. A good $12,000 loudspeaker system, a good integrated and decent music player will get you pretty far down the road. Perfect placement, a good room, and picking the right gear, is a darn good start. So just under 20K. 

For me, diminishing returns has as much to do with my check book balance as anything. If there is a surplus in the checkbook it easy for me to fanaticize about the potential aural rewards of getting  a more expensive piece of equipment. If, after acquisition, I can't hear the increase/improvement of sound quality and I have correctly chosen the component,  I still have the bragging rights of ownership and can fib about the improvement it brought. Impress the hell out of the poor folks! :-)

For me, diminishing returns has as much to do with my check book balance as anything.

absolutely... well said, and should never be forgotten

all things hi end hifi are luxuries in life... take care of all the basics and essentials first -- family, kids, home, education, personal and professional development, security, meet all obligations for those whom depend on us... happiness and success in life is about careful prioritization