The Psychology of Constant (Equipment) Change

If you're similar to me, you enjoy hearing differences. When I get a new piece of gear, I'm excited to hear it. If there's little to no improvement, back it goes. But if there's an improvement, i'm convinced I've made the last purchase ever. I hear the improvement. it thrills me. after several weeks, i no longer hear an improvement; it's just the improved version, which is great but maybe not as thrilling. Here are some silly remedies: keep some crappy equipment around to hook up and hear the differences. If your DAC has a ton of parameters, A/B test them. You'll love the journey fine tuning the sound so it's just right. upgraditis is difficult!

Some people get acclimated to the sound of a particular system and it no longer sets off the endorphins after a while.  The sound is still the same, your brain's reaction to it has changed.  Putting in a new component in your system can get your attention again.  Nothing wrong with that.

Remember BB King's great song, "The Thrill Is Gone"?

Always a new experience, and it's fun to make a major purchase. It's a luxury, and those who can afford it like luxury.

If language is a virus, then audioholicism is one of the 'side effects' in the dinky print in the spots for Todays' New Drug that is Never focused on the mortal wound we share....

Emo roller coaster....pardon.... ;)

I vary gear as the wave & ware of the perceptible 'new' occurs.

When I first read about the new 'D' chips 'n amps away long ago, self thought:

I wish I had the wherewithal to invest back then.....

Anyway.....I'm still curious as to why it's a great way to pre-celebrate St. Pad's  Day by engaging in a bout of naval gazing.....valid in it's way, but...?

J

I know people who change out equipment more than I change my socks! I can't even imagine the losses they have in reselling this equipment. If I was only wealthy!