Well, first, color me blushing. I had really no idea anyone would take me even this seriously. A few weeks ago out of left field one of my most ardent followers (an anti-fan) pointed out I said I didn’t find a brand of HE amp all that special like 6 years ago, and he still remembered.
Thanks to all the fans, but I’m just a guy who likes audio and has developed some personal tastes in it. I usually post here thinking that Audiogon is a teacup and no one really cares what is said, especially if I dislike a major brand’s sound, who cares? Turns out within this teacup many do, and it’s’ been an adjustment for me.
The statement of "who cares what xxx thinks" is one I agree with sometimes and in some ways and in others disagree. I mean in the sense of what you personally should buy and listen to, only your own ears really matter, but most people are motivated to build communities, and brands are sometimes how we do this. It may feel like I’m personally attacking your team if I don’t like how they play or if I question why you do. On the other hand, what I find interesting to read from others, even those I disagree with, is understanding the context of their experience. What speakers, what music, and what did they compare to? What did they like? What trip got them to where they are now?
A lot of what interests me is how we perceive and why. Like whether you like cilantro or not, or IPAs. My personal love of both has no bearing on the truth of beer tasting, but I find it fascinating some taste cilantro like soap, or conversely, that there are audio brands which to me taste like soap, and to others delicious salsa. Is it learned? Is it in the ear? Fun stuff.
As I’ve stated before, your personal listening experience is sacred. Love what you love, but if you can leave us all with an understanding of how you listen, and how you got there we’ll all be enriched.
