I used to think this way. I’ve reached escape velocity and have exited the trappings of judging gear based on the price. High end audio is very similar to high end fashion in terms to performance.
These days, it’s very easy to sell “high end” gear and replace it with less expensive gear that outperforms it.
You aren't kidding. I've heard some of the high end and I am not impressed. Pass Labs though is another matter.
I have listened to a few systems that were all high dollar and I was very surprised that I preferred some much lower priced gear. Don't even get me started on Hegel. What a waste.
In the end, I think despite what measurements and logical intepretations of measurements have to say, if you yourself like or don't like it, will mean the difference. You can have gear that says its flawless but if you end up hating the sound, then you hate the sound.
If you buy some magic crystal or a special spell for good sound and suddenly the sound is great for you, then that magic crystal was worth it - whether it actually made a difference or not. At least that's how I see it. Telling yourself there's no difference but still hating the sound, well that's just a miserable self-defeating endeavor. Saving money by investing in wise lower cost solutions and loving the sound, well that's a win-win.
My old V8 car isn't actually any faster than some el cheapo cars on the market. Some can outpace it because of their lightness. But I love the sound and the feel of the engine response, and the torque it produces so my experience is that it's way better.