I am new to this forum, and sort of new to the epiphany of good hifi. Not so much in concept as much as an actual system I could wrap both my head and finances around simultaneously. Though my system is not anywhere near "reference" quality, I do appreciate the advice of my somewhat local hifi shop.
My problem is purely semantics. Take whiskey or even mountain biking- the good stuff is purely in the palate. What is nirvana to one is not worth the glass it was poured in to another. Given that, when I went to actually buy my current system I read as much as I could on current terminology so I could have a commonality with what was in the market. Wine verbiage is trendy- "cat piss" or "grassy" were not used to describe grapes of yore, and as such, current hifi terminology is just that. I tried to use these descriptors to try and hone in on what my local shop was hawking to get towards what I [thought I] wanted. I was told not to focus on those things and just listen to the music, aka system, and judge the sound for what it is. Though I agree with this sentiment 100%, I was left feeling like I couldn't actually describe what I wanted and have that translate into a listening experience. It ended up being just a basic stroke of good luck and, as it turned out, some varied reading that led me to that perfect blend of sight, sound, and wait for it- reference.
I have heard precious few very expensive systems. It's hard to fake being able to afford those things, and some shops use this to avoid spending time to explain their qualities. Reference is a moving target at best, and if it costs over $10K, then I will not know it in my current circumstances because it is unreasonable for my lifestyle. That being said,it sure would be nice to have a glass to taste now and again... I think a responsible shop will leave you with an understanding of what the extra cash gets you, maybe even a little wanting. IF they don't share your ear or passion for your version of minutia, then that's okay. They should refer you onward on your quest. I can appreciate a new Alfa Romeo even if I can't afford it. Maybe my next job gets me closer. I sure would appreciate the respect of the salesman not to rule me out for my lack of knowledge OR income. Educate me!
So yes, I do agree that hearing these "reference" quality systems is a good thing for us all, but it is equally important to be able to explain them in terms other than sound. I was blown away when a salesman worked me through jitter, through the sound. It took multiple hook ups and some perseverance but he got me through that obstacle. After that, my level of reference changed. I can't go back now, and it has become something that has to be solved each time I upgrade.
So please, if you're in a position to help explain hifi to a novice, take your time and listen to the person asking about the sound so they can understand that sound, entirely. It's a never-ending quest, after all.
Thanks.
