So whichever Audio Note we're talking about.....
One of them has acquired the world supply of rare capacitors and tubes.....
Which, I guess, is one reason for the ridiculous pricing.
So, basically, my original assertion is correct. It's like the diamond trade. Collect as much of the world supply as possible and charge whatever you want for it.
Yes, Blackgates are awesome. I wouldn't trade my DAC, which I've modded with them, for anything. But it's not the caps that make the DAC so special.
So again.... It's all about exclusivity rather than performance.
I guess, if you're geeky enough to pay $100k+ for some special caps and tubes..... get on with your bad self!