Mid to late 80’ s, my Harmon Kardon 730 blew a channel. It was 10 years old, so I bought a Luxman R115 receiver. Specs were great. I even heard it in the store. However,when I got it home a set it up, my first listen was a giant letdown. The bass line consisted of the bass drum only. Speakers were original large Advent. I sold it within the year and got the HK 730 fixed and enjoyed it for another ten years. I still cringe when someone recommends Luxman.
This was a great lesson. It was the only piece of gear that I made such a mistake. And I had listened to it. Since then, I have put together what I believe is a reference quality system without hearing anything except the speakers.