They know we will pay anything they can think of

…advertising, manufacturing, and overhead is relatively expensive

What about R&D costs?  This is a major factor in driving up costs.  I’ve been to the Magico manufacturing where they gave cutting edge equipment including computers, CNC aluminum cutting machines, etc.  IIRC they recently build/upgraded a $250k sound room.  These costs must be covered by sales income.

I have Vimberg Mino D speakers whose Herculean construction is designed to reduce cabinet resonances and the finish is impeccable- this obviously adds to the cost.  The Diamond tweeter obviously is costly.  It is not some mere random markup.  I’m fortunate that I could afford this speaker which is the lowest model from trickle down technology from Tidal.

I also have the Constellation Inspiration electronics. Again I’m the beneficiary of trickle down technology as my electronics are Constellation’s entry level. These were listed in TAS top 50 bargains.  This doesn’t seem to fit the OPs random markup theory 

@ghdprentice I'm stunned... you mean it really does cost $22,000 to make a preamp and market it? I want to thank you for informing me. I will try to not be lazy next time and find the answers you have already found.

@mike_in_nc I felt you didn't get any of the tax cuts. Intuition. It's always easier to form a negative opinion of tax cuts your way.

OP,

I am really sorry that my comments come as a surprise to you. It saddens me that folks growing up and educated in a country with unhampered privilege, know so little about the world. I have taken advantage of opportunities and have worked for great high tech companies like Burr-Brown Corp, and Texas Instruments as an executive and a start up company. I have worked in the global manufacturing supply chain all over the world. Completely understand business, manufacturing. I have followed the high end audio industry for fifty years. Your perspective is so lacking in understanding it is embarrassing.

I can only suggest you learn more about the high end audio industry. You will find what I have said about of it is absolutely true. 

I'm stunned... you mean it really does cost $22,000 to make a preamp and market it?

@ghdprentice This is the statement of someone who has no idea what he’s talking about or any faint clue of how business works.  It’s just sad ignorance on full display.  Maybe he’s kenjit’s dad.  That’d explain a lot.