Longevity of ownership

I bought my Basis 2500 turntable w/ Vector 4 arm in 2002. Replaced belt once & got a new cartridge a couple years ago. Still sounds great & rivals my very good digital sources. 

Audio Items that rely on. Mechanics, are made known through numerous reports that can be seen, are able to be classed as very high quality in their function. Add to certain models modern replacement parts and reports can be found that are offering a good appraisal.

As for electronics there are endless reports to be found about how attractive  the end sound is that is produced. There are are also tweaks and mod's for certain models/designs that are reported on as being substantial as an improvement.

We make our own choices on the devices selected to be used in a assembly of an audio system. 

For me, end sound evaluation is usually where the decisions are made to make changes to the assembly of an audio  system. 

I have just sold my Michell GyroDec (1992) and an Audiolab 8000ppa phono stage (1996) to a friend. My Tag Mclaren T20 tuner is from 2000 and my SME V tonearm was bought in 2010. The latter two items are still in use in my current system. All have worked faultlessly - bullet-proof engineering !!

Allison CD8 bought new in mid 80s, refoamed once. Still great. Harmon Kardon AVR340. Various CD changers, such as Carver and Denon. Pair of Tannoy studio monitors, maybe 1999, still look and sound like new. Pair of Mirage 290. 

Velodyne spl1000 sub bought new in 2000. Still my main sub, never required any service.