You are not comparing like with like.

Precious metals are not revenue earning masternodes.

You can invest in any fraction of Dash just the same as you can buy a gram of gold.

Masternodes are a network service which require collateral. The network doesn't care about who owns that collateral or if one or more entities collateralise a masternode address.

That isn't a "barrier to entry", it's a value added revenue source for existing coin holders. (Note the word "existing" as in 'already invested in the asset'). Furthermore, the masternode network benefits all stakeholders - not just those who opt to collateralise the masternode addresses.

It benefits end-users by massively enhancing the network versatility and performance.

It benefits non masternode investors by providing a complimentary reserve market to stabilise the pure currency one.

It benefits the development team by providing continuity of governance and a revenue stream.

So stop with your 'barrier to entry' crap and recycled yesterday's fud.