the quest for the best--within limits

I believe it's just a matter of people not having the buying power they used to have. Not just what they have in the bank but also what they can afford to put on credit. It's the economy.

Also, they rely on those who have gone before them and their sage advice.

All the best,
Nonoise

Maybe people have finally figured out they've been getting screwed.

I don't think they mean best literally, but are asking for members favorites, to start a short list for exploring.

It is multifactorial but one of the most important contributors is that many Audiophiles cannot audition the gear they can afford. As such they rely on the less likely to have an inherent bias from forum contributors versus the conflict of interest almost all magazine reviewers have to deal with. There just aren't enough Brick and Mortors.