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How did you choose your equipment?

As I surf this site and look at different systems, certain questions arise for me: What actually makes people choose one manufacturer over another? What was the influence or recommendation that made you decide on an amp from company "x" instead of company "y"? I'm guessing it's from one of these possibilities:

1) Read a review from an audio magazine: This is probably (and unfortunately), the most common way.

2) Visiting your local audio retailer: Honestly, how many of us do this anymore? The internet is a big place...

3) Hearing a friends system. This seems like the most likely way. Think about it: Brick and mortar audio stores are so scarce that it makes it difficult to go somewhere and listen to a variety of equipment. When locations to hear music are rare, going to your friends house is the most likely method. Obviously, the possibility of you purchasing one of those components increases.

4) Finding a deal on the internet without actually hearing or reading about the component: Basically, taking a chance on something.

So, what determines your decision?
devilboy
ponnie
233 posts
 
Hey Devilboy. You cannot depend on magazines. My biggest disapointment were from the magazines. I did get some very good information from friends in the business of making audio gear. I purchased a VTL power amp and the reason was that I had heard it sounded very good and was reliable plus I got a good deal. It also used a tube I like, the EL 34's and that was cool too. So I took a chance on it. I also have a Van Alstine Super PAS 3si tube preamp. I had owned CJ, ARC, Audible Illusions, PS Audio (80's vintage) some Chinese gear, Rogue, and the list keeps growing. The Van Alstine surprised me more than any of the other gear I mentioned. I have had it for almost a year and I can only find one thing I would like to have more of and that is transparency. This unit is a 8.9 out of 10 which is very good IMO.

I read every review I could find on both pieces and my honest gut feeling was to try it. I got a good deal on them and I won't loose any money on them. I am guranteed to break even no matter what. But I was surprised how well both the power amp and preamp matched each other and I decided to keep them.

My speakers are over 13 years old. Spica TC 60's. I turned down several expensive speakers including Magepan MG 12's, Living Voice Avatars, VonSchweigert VR 3's and Vandersteen 2Ci's. The TC 60 may not play as loud but they are a better match in my room.
Yes, friends and reviews gives you some very good choices but it's all about taking a chance on what you like and what you want and putting in the time to extract everything out of that gear you can. If it means buying a new amp, wire or better stands, etc.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
options 6 and 7:

arrange a home audition, before buying a component--option 6

consulting with a manufacturer or distributor about a product--option 7
slikric3000
638 posts
 
I am a real snob, I choose my components on how well they will impress others.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
i try to buy vintage used gear that is in great condition and i think is cool. no other criteria....the collector's curse.
mingles
799 posts
 
I want to echo what Entrope said:
finding local audiophiles and listening to their gear.
This is one of the best ways to learn. I've met a number of great people through the classifieds. As long as you're upfront and honest about your intentions, you'll find that most audiophiles love an audience to listen to, and talk about, their gear. Some of my best experiences have been in these situations.
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