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Do Audio Hobbyists Commonly Fail to Fully Utilize Their Systems?

This question is polite way of asking: How many of us spend big bucks to secure the best sound we can, only to misuse or under use our equipment? IF my personal experience is anything to go by (probably not typical) many times I've done something purely ignorant which resulted in an otherwise decent system failing to perform as it could if well connected? My error in my SVS sub settings is a perfect example. This morning the timbre and soundstage is unlike I've ever heard from this chair. For a year at least I had two filters fighting each other squashing my tunes! Audiogon forums are often assessed to cure perceived problems by members however, what one doesn't know CAN harm you! (your sound that is).My short list of crazy stupid isn't by any means limited to the subwoofer setting error. A short list includes wrong tubes in wrong places, modem and router WAY TOO close to amp, speakers overly toed`in, and the list goes on...Its probably impossible to believe but apparently some of us need a "systems check up"! Wishful thinking I suppose but you know there's others who have invested hundreds if not thousands only to produce B~ sound.  Check list? "FIND WEAKEST LINK HOTLINE"? Ideas?

 

allears4u
sgordon1
439 posts
 

For me, it is a willingness to learn, ask questions and periodically examine what I am doing.  And to remember that the pursuit of great sound is more a journey than a destination.

If you know anything about the human body and proper exercise techniques, what will you see, on any given day, when you observe people at the gym?  Improper form, ineffective movements, and ever-present risk of injury.  The “waiver” takes the ownership off the hook; audiophiles call their own shots, accountable only to themselves, right?

 

hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,980 posts
 

My own answer is "yes," and failing to account for and then measure and adjust the room's acoustics is the biggest way I failed to make the most out my equipment. One of the most difficult parts of this hobby for me is the full admission that "the room wins" if you don't pay attention. After that, it's an endless chase for gear.

allears4u OP
145 posts
 

Way back in the Stone Age, we used to go to customers homes to test set up. Complete with DB meters and test records! We'd discover the funniest things! We are now on our own with sometimes increasingly complex systems. What possibly could go wrong? "Weakest Link Hotline" how may we help you today?

artemus_5's avatar
artemus_5
1,976 posts
 

This morning the timbre and soundstage is unlike I've ever heard from this chair. For a year at least I had two filters fighting each other squashing my tunes!

 

You went for a year without noticing? What changed this morning? maybe you listened more intently to the music?  It sounds like you expect to be perfect. So 2 filters were wrong. But you had enjoyed the music for a year before you noticed anything wrong?  My point is that you apparently enjoyed the music for a year. And isn't that what this "hobby" is about?

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