Best bang for the buck

Best bang for the buck? It's right under your noses, on this forum. 

@ctlesq 

I never tested with and without the IFI.  In fact, never even thought about it.  When I got the parts, I just put it together and listened.  I was more focused on implementing the fiber media conversion was taken aback by the improvement.

I'm going to have to say that it was probably the Emerson turquoise plastic transistor radio from the late 1950's... maybe $10 or $15. The biggest step was from none to some. 

Best bang for the buck

THIS is so obvious, purchasing audio gear second hand. Discounts are typically 30-50% lower than new. Vintage for much lower costs.

It’s the only way I can afford my 100k new retail system at a very deep used discount in close to new condition.

Late to the high-end audio game, I researched then demoed the very best Sonics at many audio shows and stores. Unfortunately my Sonic preferences was Magico and YG and their top electronics which was way out of budget.

Extremely fortunate to land my Vimberg Mino D AXPONA demo at a deep discount (and blew my budget) negotiated by my dealer.

Also Lucky to find and purchase my extremely rare in NAmerican voltage my used Humboldt as Audionet has a minor presence here. The Audionet Humboldt Sonics competes with the very best SS top electronics, so at 22k used replacing both a SS pre and amp it’s a tremendous sonic bargain within my very tight budget. 

I bought a bottle of Merlot, organized a BBQ and invited a guy from here/