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

Back in the day, when scratch was scarce, I used speaker cable sold on a reel, without connectors. I was frequently changing out components that were on loan from friends who were overseas in the military or away on internships, etc. One time I mistakenly wired my JBL L-65’s with the polarity of the wires reversed. I was about to deal some crap  on my friend regarding the sound of his Luxman amp. After I corrected my error, the sound was pure bliss.

I should clarify that only one speaker was miswired and out of phase. If I recall correctly, which is saying a lot, alcohol or other substances were involved.

I wouldn't say I misuse my equipment but at times it would probably qualify as underused. Particularly in the warmer months when I spend more time outdoors. I am constantly tweaking things though. I adjust the sub from time to time and if the speakers get moved I have to go through the whole process of placement again. Turntable settings or tube changes happen less but they do need adjustments at times. It's all part of the process and something I enjoy so no sweat. 

I can confirm that my system/systems are about to get a workout tonight!

 

Happy New Year!

allears4u, I've made the mistakes you mention. My worst chronic mistake has been speaker placement (ironically, a zero-dollar aspect of this hobby).

Placement oversight/neglect seems common. Based on the "my system" pictures posted throughout the web, it's apparent that many people place their speakers to agree visually or fit architecturally in a room, rather than to optimize the sound.

Another category of mistake I'll mention is when to listen critically (for acoustics) and when to listen to music (to enjoy). I think I ping back and forth in a sub-optimal way.

EQ products are a tool to help. Also utilizing other ears to listen can assist, especially young ears.