Technical sophistication


Since joining this forum, I've been both amazed and sometimes intimidated by the technical sophistication of contributors. I'm wondering if many of you are engineers or have some similar background.

It seems that in-depth knowledge is sometimes (oftentimes?) required to set up a top-level system and - despite reading a couple of books and this forum, supplemented with online sites and a subscription to "Stereophile" (and "Absolute Sound" in the HP era) - I have no clear and present idea about what's going on, at least at a fundamental level. I've had "audiophile" (as defined by reviewers at various points in time) equipment for decades, but I consider myself a dilettante in this arena.

So, what are forum members perspectives on this observation?
Keith
kacomess
For really useful information without woo-woo, I recommend Jim Smith’s book, "Get Better Sound." A set of videos with the same name is also available. The focus of these is on optimizing your current system without additional expense, rather than buying ever-more-costly equipment and ever-more-bizarre accessories.
mike_in_nc,
You’re the 2nd person to recommend this book. Interestingly, it’s out-of-print and Amazon prices range from ~$39 (one used copy available right now) to ~$995 (I kid you not on that). Clearly, Amazon sellers have priced their offering knowing what audiophiles are willing to pay for good sound, whether from equipment, sound sources or even books!
Thanks,Keith
Mike_in_NC,

That’s great! Many thanks for that link! I think the Amazon copies were the book only (no DVD, etc).

Keith