"Though i’ve found with few exceptions the companies with the most integrity don’t take out full page ads in glossy audio mags."
Maybe, I haven't counted but have you seen their glossy brochures that are available at audio shows?
I have no problem with the prices of some of this esoteric gear, it is of no relevance to me and often does not corrolate to better, at least some of what I've heard but for sure bigger and shinier finishes, "ain't that grand" as my Great Auntie Mame often said...and so some of it is. High performance audio has become something else again from what it was when I first came into the fold. So long as I continue to not be taken in by the physical size and beauty, I see no reason for an audio amplifier to sell for some of the asking prices whether one can or can't afford it. But again that really is naive too. If an individual can simply write a check for whatever whenever, it really doesn't matter what those that can't think, does it?
As far as reviewers are concerned, pure entertainment nothing more or less with a FEW exceptions. That is the ones that can describe what they hear and can articulate comparative differences to like components and ACTUALLY know the difference between an alto and tenor sax, (love your Joni Mitchell example Wolf!). The Absolute Sound and Stereophile IMHO are worth every penny they charge. I'm not so much interested in the reviews as I was in the olden/golden days of the 80's and 90's when I hung onto every word of JGH, Dick Olsher, AHC and Sam Tellig (after all, he was reviewing stuff I could actually afford in those days) there is still plenty of value in both in the music selections and articles about industry people and new products, the gems that most of us can actually afford. I always jump to Bob Hartley's reviews with zeal, anticipation and great amusement to see if he can somehow outdo his previous hyperbole of those "grand" products he reviews. I love it!
Wolf I'm hearing you man!
