Are there any absolute truths???

In response to CDC:

"Absolute truth:
No matter how much you spend or what you buy you will never be satisfied."

I had a system 5+ years back in the UK (now in SF, Cal.) that cost minimal money but I had a fabulous room for it:

High ceilings
Brick walls (double thick)
About 20' x 16'
System was in a steel 2 shelf frame bolted to solid end wall

and no complaining neighbors!

System consisted of ($$ are very aprox and $=UK pounds)

Pioneer A400 integrated - Giant killer($120 used)
(I have never heard anything as satisfying since http://www.audioreview.com/PRD_116076_1583crx.aspx)

Pioneer stable platter CD used as transport ($200~)

Cabletalk speaker cable ($3 meter)
Unknown IC's

Cambridge DAC? (about $150-200)

Turntable Dual?? (made in Germany)

B&W P4's slim floorstanders - another Giant Killer (about $400 used)
http://www.audioreview.com/PRD_119142_1594crx.aspx

If I could have that system again I would be happy for life!
(the only thing stopping me is the voltage difference!)

Total cost about $1000 UK pounds, nirvana
...but do need the suitable environment too :)

My system sounds better than yours (and I lust after your components).

Well said, Albert. Don't overlook other possibilities in that last thirty minutes before the visitor arrives:

1. A ground loop hum will appear when you've never had one before.

2. The visitor will bring a crying infant and/or a three year old curtain climber with inquisitive fingers.

3. The furnace blower will develop a rumble and the day will be far too cold to do without heat.

4. Worst of all, the distinguished visitor will be totally unimpressed.

will