Let's hear from Long Time Owners

Tick? How about seeking out grand audio components to cultivate our passion and love for music.

Those who have disposable income seek more expensive toys.

Fear that we are running out of time.

I don't upgrade all that often, but when I do, it is because I have heard something - at a hifi store, a show or someone else's home - that left me wanting what I just heard. To me, the challenge has always been: How close can I get to one of these Statement/Reference level systems with gear and speakers that I can afford? Buying used has been one tool in this effort, with this site an invaluable resource, as has membership in my local audio club.

I am not done yet, but I do feel that I am close. I own one or two things that I expect to hold on to for the long haul. And, like yourself, it is about that silly grin you get when you crank up the big rig and the music thrills you with each note. In a life full of challenges, there is no better form of relief or escape, IMHO.

Any technology-driven product area is subject to changes and improvements over time. It's not like most of us are constantly upgrading furniture, carpeting, or large appliances. Computers and cars, yes, because they're technology-driven.

I have a pair of 16-year-old speakers (Mirage M5si) that still sound marvelous, but OTOH there have been many innovations in speaker technology in that time--folded ribbon tweeters, more neodymium magnets, new baffling and enclosure schemes, new cone materials (e.g., aluminum and ceramic), new surround materials and configurations, more coincident drivers (KEF, TAD), etc. There's also been more tube equipment and major sonic improvements in class D amps, more upconverting D/A converters, better digital timing, asynchronous USB, the rise of the digital music server, and on and on.

What have been the innovations in tables and chairs, or shirts, pants, and sport coats in that time?