It’s simple Texan logic. Back in 1908, $200 was equal to $5000 in today’s economy. I can put a system together that (obviously) does a lot more than a Victrola. It even runs on electricity!
Rega Brio-R integrated amp $895
Rega DAC $995
Rega RP3 turntable $895
Rega RS5 loudspeakers $1795
Chord SilverScreen speaker cables $195
Chord CobraPlus interconnect $145
Chord USB SilverPlus $95
That’s $5015, basically the same amount for the Victrola in 1908. I have a Victrola at the shop if you would like to come A / B it with the Rega system…