The "how many reviews it got" rule

There is an old saying that I believe to be true’, “We do not see what is in front of our eyes, we see what is behind them”. I think this applies to audio equipment and reading reviews. Once we take on a belief about a product, it sticks. The product might not be very good, or a good value but that will not matter. The audio mags create a lot of that “belief”, I think mostly to help sell audio equipment. 
Bigkidz and Mikepowellaudio make good points here. I would only use reviews as a very rough guide and don’t take them serious. Go and listen to any equipment that peaks your interest. Decide for yourself, be your OWN audio guru. The belief should not come from a review. IMHO.

There was a mag called "Audio Ideas guide" written solely by it’s editor Andrew Marshall from Toronto.As an English major his writing was concise,readable and very informative.No flowery language or hyperbole.
I thought his reviews were spot on and fair.
He stated specifically he would not review anything that he thought was inferior in quality or overpriced compared to other products.
I don’t think any of our current mags come close to the standard he attained with his periodical...I regret his publication is no longer available .(At least not here in the US as far as I know)

I don’t think any of our current mags come close to the standard he attained

I don't think it's a fair criticism.  If it were that, then we wouldn't have Ferrari or Lamborghini. 

I would read any audiophile review with a pinch of salt. I would look at measurements and look for forums about complaints of build or support issue. Then look at components used, design etc and of-course price.

I am in the camp that thinks good amps should all sound same at normal levels as long they can drive the speakers without breaking a sweat. 

@geek101  +1