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How Do You Live The Audiophile Life

I don’t really have the credentials to be on Audiogon. Kef Q150s and new NAD equipment that replaced my stalwart Arcam Solo. Maybe I can peek over the fence.
So I’ve have a question about the new equipment. I’m browsing the forums, looking for an answer. I know as much as about audio as anyone who isn’t an audiophile. But I was astonished at the number of brands I’d never heard of. And I know the price of the stuff I have heard of.
I’m in NYC. Maybe there’s five high-end dealers here. I’m guessing that number drops off quickly once you cross the Hudson.
This is a long winded way to ask how you live the audiophile life? How do you get access to this stuff? I’d want to hear something before dropping a car-like sum on it. Do you buy blind? Do you travel? Go to the industry shows? Help me, teach me, inform me.
I guess this question applies to speakers as well. Maybe more so. But I was in the amplifier section so . . .
paul6001
larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,009 posts
 
A lot depends on where you live and the dealers there.  Reviews are misleading because it depends upon how much the manufacturer discounted the equipment to the writer.

Audio  shows are helpful.  However, how many years before we have one due to COVID.  Thank you China for not telling the world you had it for 2 1/2 months.
audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 
I read a sh$t load of reviews, and because there are so few audio boutique stores within 100 miles of me, I buy blind. However, due to my own research, I've been lucky and have assembled my best system to date, at least to my ears and taste. I think it's all about synergy and how one component compliments another, but what do I know ...
zerobias's avatar
zerobias
73 posts
 
@millercarbon

"Actual video of millercarbon living the audiophile life."


Priceless!  The Dude Abides. 


tooblue
1,934 posts
 
Now you realize thats not really millercarbon, thats the DUDE, right?
sdrsdrsdr
196 posts
 
I find that making as many audiophile friends as possible and listen to their systems. And sharing your experiences with them too.  Sometimes letting each other borrow gear to try. I used to belong to a club that met every weekend. Heard a lot of systems back then. Once you listen to a lot of gear, when you read reviews and forums you get a better understanding of what people are talking about. Then these forums become a great source of info.
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