Words From the Wise

Analog is easier to get music from(and the software is cheaper-used records). Audio societies are good to join(You don't have to buy what you hear.). Comparitive auditions have helped me. If you can find an audio manufacturer/modifier to guide you, it is much cheaper in the long run(thanks, Ori). Instead of cobbling together pieces that get good reviews, many times they know what is inside a component and how that sounds. Digital is definitely improving. Tweaks(and tweaking) matter. Don't believe that the more you spend,the better the equipment is. Forums(Audiogon)can be very good for equipment, and if you don't know anything about something(it can bring you up to snuff in a hurry.).

Don't stray from what sounds right to you. Keep an open mind. Pay attention mostly to room acoustics and power line products, ie.. cords , conditioners. Also, especially for TT listeners, don't skimp on isolation. If you do, it will be on your own peril.

I've heard multi-thousand dollar systems in their dealer provided environment, however, I've preferred my system most of the time in my "tiny" room. Never, never disregard the "power" of a properly designed power cord and what it can "do" for your system!!!

Five things
1) Use a high power amp
2) Cross a sub over at 80-turn it down
3) Spike speakers
4) soft pucks under electronic equipment. Not spikes or wood blocks
5) cd does reveal more sound than records

Don't.

Don't believe anyone who says you cannot get ever closer to realism in reproducing musical performances.

Don't forget to have fun and to enjoy the music.

Don't believe anyone who says all amps, all power cords, etc. sound the same. There are always very smart people out there who go beyond the conventional wisdom about how to build things.

Never conclude that your system is as good as it can be. Be satisfied and enjoy, but you are never "there."

Never be satisfied that you have your system best placed in your room.

Find others who share what you find to be good sound. They may be in your area, reviewers, or internet friends. They greatly broaden your horizons. When I first started in this hobby Stereophile and later The Absolute Sound were valued inputs in addition to two local dealers and one other local audiophile. All of this is gone now.

Don't be too concerned that few, if any, of your friends are audiophiles. I have been involved with many hobbies that have fewer adherents, such a catamaran racing and auto racing. Go to local audio shows and make friends there.

Have fun.