The return of the DIYer

I've been modifying some of my equipment from my entry into high end audio in late 80's. early 90's. From the first time I opened up a component I was curious about what all those parts did and how they made up a complete circuit. Started with simple projects like removing captured power cords for IEC outlets, grew into more complex mods as knowledge increased.


Allied with inherent curiosity, I came to realize my systems were totally unique in the world and required a self chosen path to attain sound qualities I desired, in some cases, this meant mods to existing equipment. Reviews of equipment are of only limited use for me, all my associated variables versus the reviewers make this so. I'd rather mod my existing equipment vs. equipment churning.

And so, along with the pleasure of attaining specific sound quality goals, there is also the satisfaction in the very process of analyzing and effecting component modifications resulting in the fulfillment of these goals. Choosing the parts, getting them to fit, soldering, as well as keeping sound journals that document each and every modification, and inform future mods can all be entirely satisfying in itself.
I always remain mindful that all my efforts are in service to the music. While there is great satisfaction in reaching SQ goals, getting closer to the music and performance is the real payoff.
I doubt the DIY crowd will ever be more than a small minority of any group. Time required for such a pursuit is likely too great an obstacle for many, and off the shelf products provide enough satisfaction.

I can’t believe people don’t know that line from Belushi’s great inspirational speech in Animal House.
The pundits have been predicting the death of "high end" for decades but somehow, the top tier (often flavor of the month) keeps getting more expensive.
Classic old pieces command some serious coin too.
So, I agree it makes sense to go back to the roots.
I’ve been doing some reading- need to do some listening-- to the immediate post WE era-- I guess early Altec, Jensen, etc. Some of those old horn systems seem appealing- I want to hear a few (I’m trying to find the right balance between wattage needs given the modest output of my Lamm ML2s and the cost of assembling a horn system that does not run into crazy money).
I’ve never been a great soldering hand- yeah, I built a few Dynakits when I was young but I’ve relied pretty much entirely on commercially available gear.
My main system is probably the best sounding it has ever been-- based on components I put together starting in 2006-7.
I’ve spent enough time around this hobby to not be awed by the dollars spent, but I do enjoy the beauty of well made gear from whatever era. Whether it sounds good to your ears is another matter.
I think even before Harry Pearson died, and the Stereophile morphed again (was it resold- I haven’t really followed its more recent publication history), the notion of touting aspirational gear was losing its appeal. Ditto, the notion that there was only one way to achieve sonic nirvana. (How many of us still have all those Harry’s List records in our collection?)
Many people liked Art Dudley, apart from seeming like a pleasant guy and a good writer, he did like older gear and found bargains (relative) in historic pieces.
I think each of us follow a different path. If you have the skills to build from parts (I’ve hired cabinet makers to build, ahem, cabinets), why not?

 In these times of dramatic price hikes , and supply issues 
modding Loudspeaker Xovers , and upgrading gear and tweaks, upgrades  are sound investments and very cost effective 
if done properly , myself have been doing this for many years now and it’s very rewarding to see  that  premium parts in the right areas can  bring substantial gains  in fidelity.

DIY is mostly a thing of the past for two main reasons. On the one hand, modern products are far more complex than previously and on the other, most purchasers are not interested in the effort needed to get started.

I might have constructed my first solid state amplifier, but these days it's mostly just crossovers and adding shielding to equipment that manufacturers mistakenly don't consider necessary.

@oldhvymec.... *S*

Please, stand by....;)