Hi-end audio is a big zero
This is no knock on dealers, It's just how hi-end audio is.
I go listen to some speakers. He has them set up like crap - jammed between 3 other pair. Running on electronics I would never choose so I have to try and compensate for what I imagine they are contributing to the sound. Then after 30 minutes, I am expected to shell out the $4,500.00.
I narrowed it down to two transports from an online retailer. And who knows if those 2 are even a good choice? Told point blank, I am not allowed to buy both and return the one I don''t want. Just pick one and buy it. Shell out $1,000-$3,500 based on what?
One e-tailer will allow purchase 3 speakers totally $12K and return the two I don't want. Sorry, i have a conscience and can't do it to him.
Read all you want. Talk all you want. Listen at dealers all you want. But unless you listen in your own room, it's all meaningless. I'm talking even just 5 to 30 minutes can be all it takes. But that is basically impossible.
Sure you can buy and sell on A-gon or Ebay if you find what you want have the time to go through the process.
If the prices weren't so high or I did not care about sound quality maybe it would not matter.
"$4,500 ain't hi-end" what are you talking about??????????? It absolutely is, aside from a small, delusional bubble in the US. In 98% of the world, $4500 is a fortune, a result of saving for a decade. People build incredible hi-fi systems from $4500. But for some sad and cynical reason, for people in the US, who only care about 0s, it's not hi enough until the 5-6 figures territory |
I agree with @grislybutter opinion of @clearthinker comment on mid fi vs high end. Yes I have been blessed and have a system that cost more than my first 5 cars combined. Today many people are struggling to make ends meet, if you have $4500.00 to blow on gear, count your blessings most do not. |
@jerryg123 good for you! Perspective is key, no one in the US should feel guilty for their hard-earned wealth, just have the wisdom not to take it for granted and dismiss cheaper systems. |
