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
My decisions in audio are and have been solely based on sound only that is what has led me to a much different system than i would have ever imagined i would have had twenty years ago. When you base your decision on sound and create a system on sound it is so different from the norm and it is definitely not one brand at all but it can give you a lot of options.
I have adapted a no People’s Republic of China policy for the last 8 years.

Once I am past that my decision factors are.

sound quality
duels quality
customer service
price.


I'm a McIntosh fan, need I say more about systems with components from the same manufacturer.