But does that mean the more expensive high end (lets ignore the upper and say just entry) is not more costly when taking into account all aspects such as build quality, components used, importantly where built, QA,etc.
None of the above has any relevance to the point made, ie. entry-level.
BTW, have you actually seen Audiolab's build quality? I'm asking, because it's exemplary. It's almost laughable that such a thing can be offered for $1K.
Ayre is probably one of the best priced high end sellers out there, there are substantial differences between their products and Audiolab (not necessarily engineering knowledge but engineering development and critically build and manufacturing processes) - and I am a massive fan of John Westlake btw who has helped Audiolab reinvent themselves with their new products, followed him for quite a many years and chatted with him in the past.
I've owned an Ayre K-1 (w/phono). Bought it in '97 and used it 'till 06. Had a V3, as well. Now my system is powered by the Audiolab and I'm still alive. No immediate desire to take it out. The integrated can be had for less than $1K and it sounds far better than a lot of stuff I've had in the system. Hell, this thing can even dig deep with the SCIVs, albeit with dynamic limitations, a feat not always matched by significantly more impressive-looking amplifiers. I can name names. Asserting that entry-level starts at $5K+ is simply absurd.
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