What classifies a HT system as entry level high-end?

[Woody]

What a great thread!

1. I agree that lossy on a (well done) high-end system will most of the time sound better than lossless on an inexpensive system.

2. I think we can have fun discussions about diminishing returns on PQ and AQ for days, and debate will be highly subjective based upon who we are discussing with.

3. To answer the OP, a VERY general rule I go by for "entry level high-end" would be someone spending 20-30k on a dedicated HT. (speakers, electronics, projector, screen, room treatments, seats, calibration, design, etc)

The problem is that many spend out the wazoo for all of that stuff and it is then poorly implemented, calibrated, and designed and don't get a chance to experience what their gear is capable of.

4. IMO the point of diminishing returns doesnt take long to reach with decent gear. The decision to be made is how much is a slight PQ/AQ improvement worth to you?