I'm with you, Mpit, as my previous speakers (which I used for five years) and current speakers, both of which I like a lot, were bought sight-unheard. Furthermore, I've auditioned lots of speakers, and generally don't go away feeling very confident (though I'm more confident eliminating than including).
At the same time, the other side will note that you've been through 2 pair of >5k speakers a year for seven years (!), which some might take as good evidence for shopping out/auditioning. I guess the lesson is that the home audition/be willing to trade frequently approach can work, but will require some investment of time and money.
I think Ann Abor has a couple of decent dealers, btw.
John
At the same time, the other side will note that you've been through 2 pair of >5k speakers a year for seven years (!), which some might take as good evidence for shopping out/auditioning. I guess the lesson is that the home audition/be willing to trade frequently approach can work, but will require some investment of time and money.
I think Ann Abor has a couple of decent dealers, btw.
John