New Stereophile recommended list

I agree with Tubeperson. Stereophile is a shadow of it's former self; Listener is a good read, but generally thin on actual audio substance; TAS, while far from perfect, seems to have the best balance of writing and usable information.

Regarding unexplained deletions from recommended lists, I say "so what?" These lists should only be used as a guide anyway. If you bought something just because it was on the list, then of course you will be disappointed if it unexpectedly falls off the list.

Conversely, if you AUDITIONED something because it was on the list, liked what you heard, then bought it - you shouldn't give a rip if it subsequently falls off the list because it still sounds just as good as when you bought it.

If a new product comes along that is so superior to all others regardless of price why does Stereophile feel the need to create a A+ category? Why not put it in A and put the lesser components in B? This rating system has become an absolute joke IMO. Next they'll have a curve scale of price/performance value and who knows what the future holds, maybe A-; B+,B-, come on give me a break. It holds little value to me. I find there is better information provided on this forum. At least more honest and less politically/advertising motivated. Tubeguy right on!! Stereophile has become the Stereo Review of high end, Listener is an entertaining read if little else and The Absolute Sound is where the beef's at and Clara Peller's soul resides.

Sorry Tubeperson, I may have been "politically incorrect" is assuming you were a guy.

Example why the SRL is B.S. DUNLAVY-IVA, after a follow up review by JA , admittedly agreed the speaker to have low freq (20hz) , at least should be in restricted Class A, but NOoooo, they found something wrong with them and put in class B. Cary's big two story $40000 monoblocks clearly came out from review anything but class A, but obviously ended in class A. Other smaller Carys I don't have problem with. Now consider this: Dunlavy puts a lot smaller ad in stereophile v/s Carys consistent full page ad.

Amen,Tube groover! There is absolutely no reason to, after 20 years, develop an A+ rating. Unless you are pandering to the manufacturers who don't want to see the "Almight" recommended list down grade their product to clss B-C-E or, god for bid, not be listed. If a new product comes out that is so good that it is above the prior best then either the prior is down graded or deleted due to it no longer being a good value!

There new A+ has really compromised Stereophile's integrity, IMO.

Also, I don't let Stereophile make any chioces for me. I use it as a reference for equipment to listen to now so that later I can consider purchasing on the used market for reduced prices.

With the price of quality new stuff I can only afford quality used stuff, which I snatch up from those that have the new, must have, gee wiz products.