In 55 years of owning a stereo, I only went backward once. After selling off my first system (after 15 years) to travel. When I came back (discovering the grass is greener right where I had been), I bought some ’cheap’ bits to have some music. And soon began moving up again.Over the years I made a number of ’mistakes’.. but never again a deliberate downgrade. Retired now eight years, I just spent another $30,000 this year on upgrades... Significant gains.
I AM taking it with me when i go......
I have purchased used gear from folks who decided to downgrade. One got married and decided the stereo was a no go with a hot new wife. One was losing his hearing and decided to get rid of the expensive stuff he no longer could hear. and the last because moving to a tiny assisted living apt, and (apparently) no room for a stereo.