That's interesting...I'm in total agreement on the idea of component synergy, I guess personal SQ preferences have a lot to do with it as well. I, for instance, think it is much more organic sounding than my DX90, more flesh on the bones, so to speak. I've hardly touched the DX90 since getting it. And, to my ears, it has worked well with every headphone I use EXCEPT my Ety 4s, didn't like the combo. Oh well, different strokes and all that...
As for need, no one "needs" anything but their phone, it's more a "want" thing, as in, "i want the best sound I can afford".
Oh, and eventually (which, with LH Labs could be tomorrow or in 2 years...) I have a Wave coming, fully tricked out. I expect it will be much better than the Pono, but for the cost differential it had better. Have no idea how the base Wave and Pono will compare, but I assume comparisons will be posted and strong opinions well be heard.