Ask HN: Has anyone ever taken a significant lower salary for options?

Genuine question, curious for answers. People often say "The best founders are able to attract the best talent because they offer options. They also are able to attract them at a far lower salary"

I'd be curious see do a small study here on HN, to see if this is really true. If you have, please describe pre/post base salary, options, and size of the company (round raised, turnover etc).

Also: were there any lifestyle sacrifices you made?