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HOW MUCH DO NON-AUDIO FACTORS INFLUENCE YOUR AUDIO PURCHASES?

I think most audiophiles would like to think it's all about the sound, but for me there's often many factors not related specifically to sound quality, that play a big part when deciding what audio component to buy.  Perceived build quality, brand name reputation, specs, even things mostly related to appearance can have a big influence.  I have for years, pursued matched, one-brand systems and seemingly can not be truly content with my two-channel rig otherwise, regardless of the performance or build quality of specific components.  I sometimes think the whole process is, for me, more an exercise in obsessive behavior than a rational pursuit of a logical outcome.  So how about you?   Any tales of audiophilia nervosa  you'd be willing to share? 
jdmccall56
patrickorlando
17 posts
 
Hi made in USA ! most important, then price.
berner99
216 posts
 
Components—no.
Speakers, especially if floorstanding and tall need to be reasonably attractive ie any normal medium to dark wood (or black) and no weird/ugly shapes.
glupson
7,842 posts
 
"...often I succumb to the lower price of Asian-made audio."

Check Accuphase.
chorus
976 posts
 
I buy only what I can audition and return if unsatisfied.
Exceptions are some chi-fi brands like denafrips which can be resold at acquisition cost in a matter of minutes for free on USAudioMart.


In the past I only bought "sought after" brands. This way when I want to trade up or change direction I can move the gear in a matter of days.

I do find a special attraction to the Scandinavian brands. Why?
I think they are all pretty darn good. 

That said I'll buy Bulgarian gear If I think it is the best SQ per $ offering. 

It is very satisfying to have someone over for a listen and play some obscure gear that is either no longer made or very obscure and have the guest love it!!!
speakermaster
738 posts
 
My decisions in audio are and have been solely based on sound only that is what has led me to a much different system than i would have ever imagined i would have had twenty years ago. When you base your decision on sound and create a system on sound it is so different from the norm and it is definitely not one brand at all but it can give you a lot of options.
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