Words From the Wise

Don't listen when in a bad mood. It'll make you get rid of cd's.

I have been designing and istalling hi-end audio systems for over 30 years. I feel for consumers because its a very daunting task. It takes patience, knowledge, and money, to design a truely state of the art audio system. You have two choices, ether spend some serious time to learn all about stereo systems or, I would suggest finding a saleman that you really believe in to help you thru the process. So honestly you are better off researching your saleman, and store unless you really want to take the time to learn this industry. I learned it by building and modifying my own gear which helped me to learn whats important on the inside and how it relates to what we hear. Being in sales its really convienant to be able to play with different systems and equipment. I could honestly write a book just as others have done on how to design a system and what to look and listen for. Robert Harleys book is pretty darn good and will give you a good foundation for which to work from so Good luck and happy listening Kevin

1. Don't invest in gimmicks like the Clever Little Clock.
2. Try to be satisfied with what you have. Invest in tweaks that will enhance your existing system!
3. Try not to be taken in by the hype both in magazines & Audiogon.
4. Don't buy on impulse, do some research prior to making a purchase unless you have a good idea what your buying is compatible in your system & are familiar with its sonics.
5. Remember why we are here to begin with, the love of music. Don't put the gear before the music.

Don't blame CDs for bad sound, and keep all indefinitely. You will be amazed at how good nearly all start to sound as your system evolves.

My five rules.

1. It's about the sound. Not the specs, the looks, the prestige, the fashion, the reviews or any of the quasi-religious debates that consume some people.

2. This is not a commodity, so find a good dealer and stick with him over the long haul. Use magazines and the Internet sparingly and as an adjunct. A good dealer is passionate about sound, and has rock-solid integrity. This kind of dealer sells sound, not boxes. He doesn't disparage anything in his store, and not a lot outside of his store. Whether you spend $2,000 or $100,000 your business and the relationship is important. If you find that dealer, then you must act with integrity in return. He is in a tough business and has almost certainly struggled to maintain his integrity in the face of enormous contrary pressure. (No, I am not a dealer. I am a happy customer.)

3. Make no snap decisions. Instead, look to the long term. If you find yourself swapping out gear in less than five years, you should ask yourself whether you're in this for the sound or for something else.

4. Enjoy what you have. You can't try everything, so resist "audio lust." Make improvements to your system over time in consultation with your dealer. But always remember: It's about the sound, not the boxes.

5. Pay attention to analog. I'm not telling you to worship at the altar of vinyl, but rather to seriously listen to it at some point on your journey. Then decide for yourself, using nothing other than your ears to guide you.