HOW MUCH DO NON-AUDIO FACTORS INFLUENCE YOUR AUDIO PURCHASES?


I think most audiophiles would like to think it's all about the sound, but for me there's often many factors not related specifically to sound quality, that play a big part when deciding what audio component to buy.  Perceived build quality, brand name reputation, specs, even things mostly related to appearance can have a big influence.  I have for years, pursued matched, one-brand systems and seemingly can not be truly content with my two-channel rig otherwise, regardless of the performance or build quality of specific components.  I sometimes think the whole process is, for me, more an exercise in obsessive behavior than a rational pursuit of a logical outcome.  So how about you?   Any tales of audiophilia nervosa  you'd be willing to share? 
jdmccall56
  jdmccall56
I sometimes think the whole process is, for me, more an exercise in obsessive behavior than a rational pursuit of a logical outcome ...
All joking aside, obsessive behavior is a behavioral disorder. If you truly feel what you wrote is actually true, I urge you to get help. Seriously. When people talk about "audiophilia nervosa," they are just joking. It's a nutty hobby. But being genuinely obsessive is not amusing or healthy.
"...I have for years, pursued matched, one-brand systems..."

That is a habit that needs to be broken, way too limiting.
I won't buy anything made by a company owned by the government of the Peoples Republic of China.  Don't care how great it sounds or what a "Deal" it is. 
Interesting; I'm antithetical to the OP's MO of one-brand systems, and I'm really not sure why except that it seems too pedestrian. Which is a crap rationale, I realize. But I tend to get nervous if I have even two components made by the same brand (maybe cables are an exception).


In order:
Sound
Aesthetic
Brand recognition

@mahgister -- Your system has to be one of the most unusual and unconventional I've ever seen; you have the freedom to change and adapt your room as needed which many of us do not.