onhwy61, I did indicate vintage gear good for those audiophiles on a lower budget. So, why do you seem to create a dichotomy with the insertion of the word "instead," as though those pursuing higher end systems are not music lovers? Perhaps I misinterpreted your post, so clarification would be good.
However, if you are trying to suggest that there is some advantage in seeking lower cost gear as if this means a person is a "music lover," as opposed to those who seek upper end systems, here is my thought. Allow me to pose a question; If people who love the gear and build fancy systems are not music lovers, then why are not also the people who amass huge media collections and don't even play half of it not considered collectors and not music lovers? I see a definite bias and negative attitude in regard to the phrase "music lover" in this hobby which skews one way. :(
