Some stuff definitely needs to break in.
I've seen amps that sound pretty good out of the box, but
are missing the bass and over the next few weeks, playing the
gear continuously, the bass fills in, highs extend, etc.
This doesn't mean you have to like the sound after the
component has broken in.
You do have to give your gear time, but you also have to
trust your ears. If you find yourself continually *trying*
to like your system -- that's probably a warning sign of
some sort.
IMO, you have to give each component a fair shot, but you also have to be willing to move on and try other stuff in
your system until you're happy.
Tinker, tinker, tinker.
IMO, this is what is so *PERFECT* about Audiogon. You can
usually purchase a component used, try it in your system --
keep it immaculate, save the packaging, etc. -- most cases the gear should be broken in if it is used -- but, I've bought used stuff that still broke in further -- and if after giving it a fair shot it doesn't work, sell it for close to what you paid.
As you mix and match, you'll get a feel for how different
components affect the sound, which piece in your system is'the "weak link," etc.
Don't stop until you're happy.
I've seen amps that sound pretty good out of the box, but
are missing the bass and over the next few weeks, playing the
gear continuously, the bass fills in, highs extend, etc.
This doesn't mean you have to like the sound after the
component has broken in.
You do have to give your gear time, but you also have to
trust your ears. If you find yourself continually *trying*
to like your system -- that's probably a warning sign of
some sort.
IMO, you have to give each component a fair shot, but you also have to be willing to move on and try other stuff in
your system until you're happy.
Tinker, tinker, tinker.
IMO, this is what is so *PERFECT* about Audiogon. You can
usually purchase a component used, try it in your system --
keep it immaculate, save the packaging, etc. -- most cases the gear should be broken in if it is used -- but, I've bought used stuff that still broke in further -- and if after giving it a fair shot it doesn't work, sell it for close to what you paid.
As you mix and match, you'll get a feel for how different
components affect the sound, which piece in your system is'the "weak link," etc.
Don't stop until you're happy.