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ADD or Audiophile?

I’ve loved listening to music since a very young age, starting with my parents Grundig console tube stereo which they brought to the states when the army transferred my dad back to the US. I bought my first stereo components as a young teen and would sit in my dark basement bedroom listening to Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Steely Dan…..In college, I’d sit and listen to music for hours.  Fast forward 40+ years…I now have a nice system. I look forward to weekends when i can listen to music in peace and quiet. What I’ve noticed is i can no longer just sit and enjoy music. I usually read (a lot of times Audiogon Discussion Forum) while listening. When a particular song comes on or a beautiful passage comes up, I focus on the beauty of the music and artistry of the musicians creating it, then its back to mental muli-tasking again. 
I suspect its some form of ADD, but I’d like to think that doesn’t disqualify me as an Audiophile. 
Anyone else share this “affliction?”

ezstreams
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
8,061 posts
 

I usually (but not always) read while listening because of two factors. The first is that if I just listen, I get too relaxed and may fall asleep. The second is that many years ago, I listened for hours while conversing with good friends, and that kept me interested in both the music and conversation. I don't have that now. 

bigtwin's avatar
bigtwin
1,236 posts
 

Whenever possible, I like to just close my eyes and listen.  I find having my eyes closed helps to widen my perception of the soundscape.  Having said that, the human mind likes to wander and really, we aren't in control of where it goes for the most part.  When it refuses to relax and focus on the music, then I too will read while listening.  As for dozing off for short intervals while listening, that's OK too. Just means I'm totally relaxed.  Another benefit of music.  IMHO.  Cheers.

mickeyb
585 posts
 

I shoot pucks with with my youngest while jamming loud music through tidal. It’s a lot of fun and it introduces him to great music. It’s very rare I get to relax and really enjoy my system but it’s still worth every penny. Time is at a premium while kids are young and anytime I can listen I treasure it. 

baylinor's avatar
baylinor
1,432 posts
 

I don't suffer this affliction. Doubt I ever will. I hate background music, makes me think of elevators.

ezstreams OP
60 posts
 

@artemus_5  I’ll try to experiment with your theory. I have a Linn LP12 packed up (I only stream or play CDs these days) that i can set up after i can make room for it again. 
@bigtwin during those moments the music catches my attention, like you, I close my eyes which brings focus and adds the the enjoyment ( including roe-tapping but, for me no sleeping). 
The reason behind the premise of my post is after reading these forum posts over the years, I see so many members talking about spending hours enjoying their music with a glass of wine, tumbler of bourbon, a blunt, etc…but no mentions of reading like I do (usually Audiogon Forum, Stereophile, TAS, researching music or components, etc…). 
i THOROUGHLY enjoy reading these Forums and have learned so much from the experiences, opinions, and recommendations of contributing members.  I’m 67 and enjoy learning.  I’ll keep working until i stop learning and contributing to the company I’ve worked in for 42 years. However, I’m going on ~57 years enjoying music and learning about audio which will continue ad infinitum. 

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