I’m not sure this is true.
Technology moves on, 25 years is a long time. Whether it’s streamers, CD players, amplifiers, your getting better SQ at lower prices these days.
There are a lot of talented people out there, designing high quality gear.
I know most people on this forum will recommend Naim, Rega or linn. That’s what they’ve been using for past 25 years.
I believe parasound make good quality phono stages at different price points.