You can't really lump all headphones (or audio equipment, for that matter) into one category, when it come to cost vs. performance.
One has to factor in "supply and demand" into the equation of anything that is purchased by hobbyists.
The Sony R10 costs about $2900 when they were released and were considered the best headphones money could buy, the Orpheus
not withstanding. But 7 years ago, they were going for ~ $7K used. The HE90 were in the same league.
So we need to factor in, FOTM (especially on Head-Fi)…supply and demand…manufacturers reputation's…diminishing return, etc.)
High purchasing price also has psychological effects on purchasing requirements, too!
Was the R10 worth $2900 if it cost Sony $500 to manufacture and distribute? Was it worth $7000? To some people, yes! So be it!
A great headphone can be good, but is it twice or thrice as good as the other TOTL's? Pricing a product can be very suggestive, and the success can go either way.
Are some watches really worth $35,000…even if they are diamond encrusted and solid rose gold. Yes, if people will buy them, and the
manufacture can sell enough for it to be profitable.
Bottom line. If they sound really good, then I want one. Can I afford it? That's between me and Mastercard
.
-Does a product bring you joy (headphone, amp, watch, car, motorcycle, spouse)? Or are you just a grouch who doesn't really derive joy from anything, except the misery of others.
-Can you justify paying the asking price without crimping your lifestyle or causing your mind guilt or remorse?
-Is there something else that will bring you an equal amount or more satisfaction at a lesser price?
-Do you think you can get a fair amount of the purchase price back, after your ready to move on to your next desire (spouses not included
)
-Will this product make you
really happy for moments in life that are priceless (Kodak moments).
Ask yourself these questions, and your decisions will be wise ones.
In my humble opinion, of course. These are my credos in life.