Why do Audiophiles feel the need...


Why do so many audiophiles feel the need to post opinions on gear they've never owned or had such limited experience with that their opinion is valueless to the OP? Not only here, but on other audio forums, at least 50% of the posts (and I think I'm being generous) start with: I've never heard the XYZ but...

When I was participating in an auto detailing forum, teaching myself the finer points of achieving an exquisite auto finish, if someone would ask about brand X polish, I would never see a post stating: "I've never used it, but..."

My opinion is that many people spend so much time dreaming about this stuff that they've convinced themselves they know what it actually sounds like. I know it's only a hobby, but I think a poster who asks about a specific piece of gear is better served by opinions of those with experience with that gear. Maybe it's just me. Sorry if I offended anyone.
chayro
I find most opinions are useless. Your associated equipment may not be the same, your listening environment may not be the same, you may not hear as well, or the same, as what I hear. What you hear may sound yellow, where I hear purple. Only you can have the best opinion. The other folks mean well, but you may find their view doesn't meet your expectations.
Some dealers do the same thing. I've had a few dealers ask what I'm currently using and then tell me my amp or another component of mine "has to go" because it is dark, thin, or whatever derogatory comment is on the tip of their tongue. Most times when I've asked if they've actually heard the component that has to go they've admitted they have never heard one but are positive theirs sounds better! They probably spend their evenings reading the same unqualified opinions that this post refers to.
Couldn't agree with you more. For the most part, they probably think they are being helpful. What bugs me even more is when someone posts a thread which is hijacked by two or three other posters and the dialogue between them is totally unrealated to the original poster's question. That I think is rude!
I have not read any of the posts on this thread, but feel the need to disagree with all of you anyway. Which reminds me, what do you think of the Davone Rithm speakers? I have never heard them, but I understand if you turn them upside down they make a great rocking chair...
I do find that while I take knocks with a grain of salt - I do pay attention to endorsements of particular products and /or services. When someone says I owned and used X for X or XX years without a problem and enjoyed it - that's IMHO important information.
The reason I'm a little less interested in the knocks is I was a service manager in this industry for many years - people are sometimes disappointed in equipment for reasons that have very little or nothing to do with that particular product.