Best bang for the buck

$600 Vanatoo Transparent One - demoed several times at AXPONA before ordering. Don’t need but was a sonic bargain.

12k Linn Klimax DSM/2 with Organik DAC upgrade- same DAC used in their 40k system. My shot at a top DAC within budget, and not worrying about a separate quality streamer (replaces my Zenith mk3, Terminator, Mscalar). 

22k Audionet Humboldt used- cheapest top SS Pre+Amp that competes with top SS systems. I’m a Magico and YG fan, but accompany electronics was a tough budget challenge. It replaces Constellation Inspiration Pre+Stereo which is on TAS top 50 bargains list.

Snake River Audio Takshaka Power cables - completes well with Masterbuilt and Audioquest Dragon cables (both out of budget), but much more affordable. Purchased 2 with AXPONA discount. 

The definition of bargain changes with your ability to fix your own gear.

Broken / malfunctioning / very worn out gear can be had for surprisingly little if you are willing to spend the time to restore it.

Some folks would just rather see their beloved but broken gear saved from the dumpster and restored for someone else to enjoy than hold out for the last dollar. 

Then again, you have the dude asking $600 for a FUBAR Day Sequerra FM Reference tuner, who does not deign to respond to a $375 offer. Go figure 😃

When we added a room to the house, and  had to add a sub panel. when I realized how close it was to the hifi, I said give me that 20 amp outlet. Took the guy just a few minutes.  I did add a better outlet later.  Total cost was maybe $200.

Vandersteen Model 2