I'd say almost everybody realizes they've been missing a lot when I give them a demo. Some are completely amazed, having had no idea what a "stereo" could sound like.
But maybe only 1 in 10 people take any action after that. Music's just not as important a part of their life as it is mine. No one has rushed out and spent 40k or 50k on a system, but I also tell them they don't have to. I let people know they can get 80 or 90% of the "magic" by spending $3k or less on good used equipment, and 70% for $1.5k (assuming vinyl is not involved), and that I'll help them if they want to. As a last ditch effort, I tell them they can find a pair of used speakers for $750 or less that'll transform their system.
I have a number of friends and acquaintances who have nicer home audio now, and I also put together a restaurant system that completely changed the place's ambience for a friend. It's a good feeling - kind of like being a drug pusher. "Better Living Through Audio" - how much you want?
There are others who may indulge eventually, but right now they're busy with teenage kids or businesses, etc.
But maybe only 1 in 10 people take any action after that. Music's just not as important a part of their life as it is mine. No one has rushed out and spent 40k or 50k on a system, but I also tell them they don't have to. I let people know they can get 80 or 90% of the "magic" by spending $3k or less on good used equipment, and 70% for $1.5k (assuming vinyl is not involved), and that I'll help them if they want to. As a last ditch effort, I tell them they can find a pair of used speakers for $750 or less that'll transform their system.
I have a number of friends and acquaintances who have nicer home audio now, and I also put together a restaurant system that completely changed the place's ambience for a friend. It's a good feeling - kind of like being a drug pusher. "Better Living Through Audio" - how much you want?
There are others who may indulge eventually, but right now they're busy with teenage kids or businesses, etc.