I did not know that about audioquest and am not curious about the synergistic research as i am not familiar with them. Many years ago i used to run Tributaries and started buying audioquest since its a local business to me.
I am highly impressed with the attention to detail placed into your room. A characteristic which is clearly recognizable in how methodical your response was to my questions.
That is amazing that items placed in the vicinity could make such a large impact on spacial imaging. I knew that the corner and wall were horrible and could hear how much reflection it was causing. It was something that i think i can fix by moving the equipment.
I live in Orange County California so i'm certain there are some places in my area that have the ability of demoing products.
I think what i'm really struggling with is how does one know they are going in the right direction with their system?
Now, i know that is a loaded question and leading towards a potentially dumb one. But, how do people demo products on equipment that is not the same as your own and build a frame of reference to. Especially if dealers are limited to which ever brands they carry.
For example i might hear a PSaudio stack paired with some Kef speakers and it sounds good. As a inquisitor i have to ask myself, what am i hearing more of? The stack or the speakers? If i'm lucky to be able swap out the PSaudio stack for a Mcintosh stack and use the same speakers, then sure you have a bit more of a controlled variable. But what then ill still never know how either of those 2 system stack will sound on my own speakers. Not to mention if either those 2 stacks were ideal for my own speakers.
Originally i listened to music on home theater systems. I always loved music and put this system together as a "entry level" stereo experience.
I completely understand that i dove into an ocean of possibilities by getting into audio and probably the most ambitious hobby thus far for me. So thank you again. I know a lot of this is on me to do the research reading and scientific development sound.