Modern Linestages


This is a general question about how complex and expensive some linestages have become. I'm looking to understand why? I can grasp that really good volume controls are complicated and that equally good switches are not inexpensive. I also have a general understanding of the importance of a high quality power supply, which again is not going to come cheap. I just don't comprehend how you get to a 50lbs. plus preamps that cost well over $20k. Is this level of complexity really needed or is it the equivalent of the spate of 500hp "sedans" for every day driving?
128x128onhwy61
Pubul57

I think you do know the answer for NAD. Small margin, but very high volume over many years. Just a different business model and marketing strategy. Bet NAD sold/sells more units then the Constellation preamp in one day part.

In addition the technology used in that one integrated was also used in many other NAD pieces of high volume. NAD sells many items in their total line so the costs of R&D are also spread out over many products - many high volume products.

Both models can work, but close managing of costs is paramount in both models.
Hi,

Response34, I don`t recall a single post during this thread where anyone said or even suggested a company should`nt make a profit. There`s been in fact quite a few here(myself included) who openly support capitalism and free market principles.

Some of us have question the "uber" high prices of some components in terms of price/value, but realize that`s clearly up to the buying public to make that call, as it should be.

Refreshingly this thread so far has been free of the socialist-like view that all these high end companies want to do is charge "unfair" prices and ripoff the helpless consumer.
Best Regards,
Charles1dad, I think it would be a communist who would say that capitalists are ripping off the consumers. Socialists merely want to use government to counter extreme capitalism and to provide services.

Under capitalism the buyer is expected to seek quality at the lowest cost. This may include pressing the dealer for the very lowest price. Similarly there is no such thing as an uber price. Rather there will be a high price that no one or few will pay and the manufacturer will either lower the price or cease production.
"Socialist merely want to use goverment to counter extreme capitalism and to provide services"
Tongue in cheek I surely hope Tbg.
You know, like soup kitchens for a rainy day.

As to uber prices, it is not a rip off if the sound is commensurate with the cost, even accepting the law of dimishing returns - unfortuanately some expensive products justify the expense and some do not - eventually the market figures it out, but it can take a long time, especially against concerted advertising and "review" campaigns.