Why aren't these on the "recommended list?"

The reality is..despite its many faults and shortcomings, the Stereophile list is helpful to audiophiles like me who have nil access to a decent high end shop where we may listen for ourselves, and get to hear good stuff that doesn make the list. I will admit that I use Stereophile and the Absolute Sound as starting points when I consider a new componet purchase. I must also admitt that, in general, I have not been disappointed (although my amps ain't on either list..but still sound gret in my system, and replaced a pair of Bryston 7BST's which ARE on the list!). For folks like me who cannot listen in a properly controlled environment (let a alone at home!), the infamous lists (and sites like Audiogon and Audioasylum) are a good starting point to guide our purchases. This does not mean I'm not pissed off when my ex Class A, pricey monitors drop off the list 'cause none of the reviewers bought them and therefore they "haven't been auditioned in a long time"..but what are you gonna do???!

Great job Kelly!!! Many REAL companies aren't "political" enough for a mention in a magazine, yet are worlds better than most Class A components. For example; Jadis, Avalon, Tube Research, Majico, FIM Cables, etc.

Most audiophiles that are really into the hobby don't use the Stereophile recommended list, do they? Everyone that I have known throughout the years has heard about exceptional products through valued audio grapevines; guys like you, Kelly and Albert Porter.

I believe that audiophiles severely limit themselves if they live by any recommended component list, regardless of the name on the magazine.