I get it, AK is expensive but expense is relative to what your perception is. To me it may be worth it because of the overall experience AK delivers. I have a taste in cars that many think is expensive, but to me it is normal. Another example would be cables, my limit is around 300 that I want to spend because I don't get it, I could spend more or even request them for reviews as many here do, but it isn't something I enjoy reviewing.Ah yes. Their only selling point (imo) is their smooth UI. Their price to performance ratio is just not palatable to me
That said, if I find a product that I enjoy that costs less than AK I would certainly buy it before AK, but if I buy AK I know I will be happy without much trial and error. Some products set the bar and other companies raise it. I enjoy the QP2R, it is my new reference player, but you will more than likely get hiss with sensitive IEM's, I don't have any sensitive IEM's so it works super well for me.
I am up there in years so I have seen so many transitions in equipment. I remember having Yamaha reference equipment and a full Paradigm home system that, at that time, was pretty killer, I don't remember for sure, but all in, somewhere around 10-15K. My bar was raised many years ago, and once I jumped into this portable rabbit hole I attempted to ease into it but quickly found myself with 2K IEM's and DAP's.
My rambling point is, all of this stuff we talk about on a daily basis, is one man's perception or opinion. Sound, cost, quality etc. there is no one sumpreme ruling. Enjoy, what gives you pleasure and remember there ain't no Brinks truck following no hearse. Enjoy!
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