Words From the Wise

1-3 as per Swampwalker.

4. Try tweaking (placement, supports, etc) present equipment before investing in new equipment

5. (Most important) Invest in MUSIC. Keep the system playing, listen to live music of all kinds, purchase lots of software. Equipment invariably changes and could let you down; music remains true!

Phew! All great ideas.
My latest for those who live in an area with supeb live FM broadcasts, and/or really knowledgable jazz/classical programming:
* Get a great tuner.

* Go to as many live concerts for your soul AND your ears, and to support the music-making community.

Happy Holidays all.

Ern

1. ads always look good, they sound like pages turning.

2 equipment are a lot like crying babies, they are always more charming to the parents

3. ive never met a Krell dealer who liked Mark Levinson better.

4. ive never met a Conrad Johnson dealer who thought Audio Reasearch sounded better

5. some people would love to hear Fran Dreshers voice every morning. (for you lady philes, some women would love to hear sam Kinisons voice every morning)

6. opinions are like a**holes, everyone has one.

I guess what Im trying to say is, Listen with your own ears.

if your listening room is 12x12 before you go spending a vast amount of money on equipment you would be better off spending 10 or 15 thousand dollars building a decent size listening room like [18x20]. the sound difference between a small room and a large room is like night and day. Speakers need room to image properly. I thought I had good imaging until I converted the garage into a music room.

1. There is no cure or vacination for upgrade fever -- but we know it does strike especially hard after VISA statement date. There is always something for a little more money that sounds a wee bit better -- or so we all think.

2. Your girlfriend will never understand any of this. If she does, marry her.

3. Get a PS 300/600/1200 and some dedicated lines -- the best upgrade you can do, whether you have a $2K mid-fi setup or are bidding on those $40K Audio Research 600 tubes up for auction (damm this economy -- I want to bid!).

4. Don't be afraid to experiment. Just because your dealer doesn't carry it or recommend it, doesn't mean it won't sound great in your system. Every room, every ear, and every system's synergy is different.

5. Buy from reputable sources only -- either dealer or individucals -- always check 'em out BEFORE you write your check. But don't be afraid to buy used -- there are some terrific bargins out there if you're patient and shop mainly with your head and a little with your heart. In cases where your head and heart argue or disagree, let your ears be the final judge.

5-1/2. Never, never, never .... ship anything fragile UPS!