It's attention, not money, we should budget


I read with some amusement a lot of posts arguing we should spend X amount of money on speakers, or preamps or amps.  I want to make a counter argument:  We should budget our time and attention, not the money.

In large part because there are always bargains to be made, and MSRP has been (IMHO) a terrible guide to what an "upgrade" is, especially when considered in the context of an existing system.

30% Room

30% Speakers

5% Cables and power

35% Remaining electronics

 

I will read your replies thoughtfully. :)

erik_squires

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

30% room might be good if you have a dedicated listening room, but I think it's a bit much for a room that serves a multitude of purposes.... 

 

Maybe.  What if you keep the stereo in mind when selecting your home furnishings, and rugs, and maybe throw some panels on the ceiling?

@waytoomuchstuff 

 

Kind of.  The thing is though, if we open ourselves to DIY then that calculation does change a little.  I don't mean just speaker building, but say, DIY your room and acoustics, or cables, etc. 

We may spend more money on our children, but we may also make them toys and spend time with them in homework and after school activities, so I do think we can separate attention and money somewhat.