If only there was a "dating app" for audiophiles that would facilitate people with various gear to visit each other and listen to what they are interested in.... and might buy, it could be even more fun.
This is one benefit of joining a local audio club... if you can find one in your area. But given that it’s not likely you’ll find someone with all the same gear as you have in a similar sounding room, it comes down to how experienced you are and how well you can assess the sonic impact of a particular component within a system. You might be able to borrow something but I wouldn’t count on it.
Where I am out of ideas is about 4 different private seller items that meet my criteria. I have never heard those makes and models, and my only option to buy and resell in other words take on the risk that it may not work.
Yes. I get it. Personally, I’ve done this only rarely. I try to minimize the risk by buying from shops that offer returns but the reality is, you can only afford what you can afford, and when you don’t have much to spend to begin with, the prospect of paying shipping and restock charges isn’t feasible.
There are certain realities of the market that cannot be gotten around and trying to do so can result in considerable stress. I know. I’ve been there. This suggestion isn’t going to make your day but sometimes the best move is to simply wait and save up more.
so I am taking baby steps.