Hall of Shame

I do also agree with Ezmeralda except all-tube(I realy love all-tube recorded music back there).

Rather than get into specifics, I simply want to say that when the aggregate cost of an entire system, regardless of brand, design, basis, etc., exceeds something in the area of $10,000, I begin to lose interest, because after that (admittedly arbitrary) price point, the law of diminishing returns seems to set in big time. This does NOT mean, however, that anything above that level is bad-frankly I haven't heard a truly bad piece of equipment in years-but that bang-for-the-buck reduces quickly. (I can't help but wonder how much some of the vehemence on this thread results from the knowledge that the various posters with such strong feelings can't afford the stuff they trash.)

That having been said I don't see why those with the means shouldn't indulge in Pipe Dreams, Wilson, Levinson, Krell, etc., for the same reason that some people will buy a Ferrari rather than a VW, even though the latter will accomplish the same basic objective, i.e., get one from Point A to Point B. Assuming, of course, that the item(s) are purchased as a deliberate, well considered, intelligent and informed choice-or maybe not if you have enough money!

I think that Suretyguy's comments are right on target. There is no question that the law of diminishing returns operates on, perhaps, its highest level in the world of high-end audio. That said, I fall into the camp that has spent way too much on my system (although the end result has been spectacular). I have no doubt that I could have achieved "respectable" performance at a small fraction of the cost, but, when you're hooked, your hooked. BTW, I also agree with his point that one's ability to afford the gear can often color one's judgement in assessing its performance.

Paradigm 'Reference' speakers are the worst speakers I have heard in thier price range. I don't get the raves. I prefer the DM302s to the Studio 20s.

I think Esmeralda has had the guts to write what lots of folks here really think and dare not say--although a bit more extreme than my own views on the subject. But, hey, folks, this is a hobby.

Personally, I advocate DBX evaluation but if that isn't your thing, then do it your way. If you are persuaded that you hear a difference when you elevate your cables on little truss bridges, then elevate away and let no one be the naysayer. We do this for fun, right?