Goryu,
I believe Mr. Karsten responded directly to you back in October on the matter of pricing.
"Its cost is based on a formula rather than what the market will bear".
Every manufacturer sets their pricing based on their own constraints (formula). If the products aren't well received by the market they won't stay in business very long. Simple as that. Atma Sphere has been around a long time, which speaks for itself on the matter of pricing and perceived "value". Of course time will tell with their new Class D offering.
Just as music is a matter of personal taste, so is the matter of audio equipment and it's "value" relative to our means. We each determine what sounds "best" to us, and how much we choose to spend on our gear. It seems a bit ridiculous arguing with someone whether their preference for tubes or solid state is "better" than the other. By the same token I think it's silly arguing with anyone about the price of their equipment. To each his own.
I believe Mr. Karsten responded directly to you back in October on the matter of pricing.
"Its cost is based on a formula rather than what the market will bear".
Every manufacturer sets their pricing based on their own constraints (formula). If the products aren't well received by the market they won't stay in business very long. Simple as that. Atma Sphere has been around a long time, which speaks for itself on the matter of pricing and perceived "value". Of course time will tell with their new Class D offering.
Just as music is a matter of personal taste, so is the matter of audio equipment and it's "value" relative to our means. We each determine what sounds "best" to us, and how much we choose to spend on our gear. It seems a bit ridiculous arguing with someone whether their preference for tubes or solid state is "better" than the other. By the same token I think it's silly arguing with anyone about the price of their equipment. To each his own.