Why don’t more members post their systems in their profile?
I’m always surprised, and a little saddened, at the number of members who don’t bother to post details and pictures of their own systems in their profile. This is often where I learn the most, providing straightforward, data-centric information. We have contributors, posting nearly daily, pontificating even, but don’t demonstrate or show-off their own setups. To me, seeing one’s system is part of their overall audiophile bona fides. What are the reasons so many folks don’t share their own systems with this community?
1) I agree that it’s helpful to know where a member is coming from if you can easily see their system. If they’re a digital, mega-watt, solid state, low efficiency person vs. a vinyl, tube and horn guy - big difference in perspective.
2) I have 4 systems and the Audiogon systems page helps me keep track of them - what the model #s are, which tubes I’m currently running, etc. Very helpful as a reference tool for conversations with other audiophiles.
3) Pride. Yes, I confess, I’m proud of the systems I’ve put together, think they look awesome in their respective locations, and I like to brag on them a little bit. And when I talk to non-audiophiles about our passion, they understand it a lot better when I pull up my systems pages and let them scroll through the photos.
I gave up trying, Audiogon made it too confusing and difficult to post a photo of my system. Same with how they randomly require a credit card to now ask a seller a public question. I've been a member for 20 years.
For me, prefer not to show people what I have. In general, it's not my nature. Not for fear that someone will connect the dots and come to my house. Also, I did not want to hear criticism of my setup. But..... I posted a question about something on this forum and one of the responses was that it would be helpful to know what I had. Then I figured that to get a higher resolution answer I'll need to show my system. That's when I said go for it and post. I'm glad I did. It's been rewarding to hear from others. Received good advice and pointers. Gave me direction on where I can optimize my system. For those who have helped me, thank you.
I can’t believe how many people don’t post their systems. Just because I don’t post my system isn’t a good excuse.
I’m trying to get things just right and maybe some day I might be inspired to expose my private world. There are so many awesome systems however that have been posted. It’s amazing what some people have accomplished and it’s great they’ve taken the time to share it all. This is probably the best place on the planet you can see such an extensive collection of audio systems.
For those people who have gone to the trouble to post their systems, the only thing I would request is they take more care to identify the individual components to go along with the model name and number.
My guess is that posting one's setup can be a little intimidating for some of us. Especially when you get a look at something like Mike Lavigne's setup (it's awesome, by the way).
Also, some people like to keep their lives private, which is 100% their prerogative.
That being said, posting one's setup can be beneficial. Especially when one is asking for advise on possible equipment purchases.
It helps provide a point of reference when it comes to budget and synergy.
I love seeing systems of all levels. What interests me is the care folks provide. We all start somewhere modest and move up to the point we’re happy. So the argument of intimidation sounds silly. I have a system that is now my end game. If I were to start again the fun would be to see how I could put together a system I could be happy at a much lower price than my current system.
. . . some people like to keep their lives private
. . . posting one’s setup can be beneficial. Especially when one is asking for advice
Simple solution:
When editing the Virtual System, select from the menu: ’Who can see this system’. Select ’Everybody’ when asking for advice. Select ’Only Me’ when going private.
I used to post my system. Once my system reached a certain "point" I didn't feel comfortable posting pics of it online. Multiple reasons- I try to keep a low profile from business associates. Certainly potential security concerns. I love my system- it is a lifelong passion but I'll be the first to admit, it's ridiculously expensive and I'm definitely a little self conscious about it.
I just mention what I have within the context of a conversation - my system is not that complicated - TT (arm comes with it), phono stage, integrated amp and speakers. When it comes up, power conditioner and/or vibration control add ons It's not in a dedicated room and I don't need to have people looking at my den..
I tried posting picts of my system several years back, but I must have been doing something wrong as they wouldn't post, so I gave up and haven't thought about it since.
Since then my system has had a couple of changes, so whatever would have been posted then would be different now.
On posts, I occasionally mention what equipment I have or am interested in, so it's no big secrete. One day, when I'm feeling ambitious, I might get some updated phots and get them posted.
The photos aren't the important thing, its about the equipment, this isn't a beauty contest. This all about context, actual experience counts, this why members should maintain past as well as present equipment on virtual system list.
There appears to be a limit to how many photos can be loaded at any one time.
I find completing the virtual system to be a useful exercise. It helps set the context by understanding how the system has developed over time, so one can assess the current set up and consider any future changes. Sometimes, familiarity breeds content. Alternatively, it’s possible to slip into complacency. Setting everything out logically, allows one to make a realistic appraisal of the system’s capabilities and enjoy music on it to the max.
Plus no idea is worthwhile unless it can be communicated. I've made occasional bad choices in the past. Hopefully, looking dispassionately at where my system is now will stop me repeating my mistakes.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.
