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High End Audio-Gaining Higher Ground?

This is a spin off from a meeting held by audio designers where the primary discussion was about high-end audio and how to get the younger generation interested & involved in high-end audio. One of the speakers mentioned that his son was not the least bit interested in his rig and if something was to happen to him, his son stated it all would be put up for sale on Ebay.

I thought it would be interesting to put this discussion forth to this audio community and to get opinions on the above subject. Are audiophiles a dying breed and what could rekindle this hobby for all new generations.
phd
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
In regard to standards of quality, mid-fi and hi-fi have improved since I discovered audio in the early 80's (except for speakers). So I'd have to say standards aren't lower. We tend to get more fidelity for the money.

In some cases, yes. But what I see is poorer build quality and parts quality compared to the 70s and 80s, even the 90s on low end and mid-fi gear. And that's what most people can afford, really. Also, that's what most people know about. I don't even think they know about high end audio even existing. I certainly didn't know until I was 15-16 years old back in the mid 80s.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,520 posts
 
Most people wworry more about sound quality and features, and less about "build quality".

If it sounds good and does what is needed, and lasts a long time, then that infers sufficient build quality to deliver the performance intended.

Not that build quality does not matter, but value, design and quality control matters more for most people. I have seen high end pieces built like a tank that sound great but work less reliably than similar device at Best Buy.
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
Well, there's always exceptions to the rule. Good point. I don't really disagree with you there.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,520 posts
 
"Most people wworry more about sound quality and features, and less about "build quality"."

Whoops, forgot to say they also care about aesthetics. Build quality may factor into that aspect of it as well.
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
Ok, I would agree there as well.
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