2. misc-audio
  3. 979659255

Are you Guys Rich or What!?

I have an old system, nothing special, Adcom, Vandersteens etc and I recently set foot for the first time in a "high end" shop, hoping to get to the next level of audio nirvana. When I saw some of the prices for monoblock amplifiers, cables, the latest speakers etc, I practically fell off my chair when I realized that I could blow $50-100K pretty easily on this stuff. I am not rich. Do you big budget system guys all work on Wall Street or something or do you eat macaroni and cheese most nights to put a few bucks away for CDs and your next upgrade?
thomashalliburton5534
ben_campbell
1,169 posts
 
Twl,
Yes but your system only cost $2k because you spent all your money on wine,$2k-lol.
twl
3,251 posts
 
Oh Ben, how right you are about that! But, you know, if you read wine reviews, they sound alot like audio reviews. "The bouquet is palpable","The unctious collection of flavors dances on your pallet", etc. Perhaps the two hobbies are closer related than many believe. Cheers!
mvwine
21 posts
 
In my house, wine and audio are real close - my wine cabinet is just about three steps from my stereo!
lockss
17 posts
 
Me rich?! NOT. I'm a recent graduate with a good paying technical job, but it is an intresting trade off between paying off school loans, my music, and eating. I buy most everything used that can usually be sold at little or no loss. I contracted the "audio bug" from a friend. Who knew it was such a virulent contagion? I wouldn't ever give it up though. With a long commute and long hours, it's my way to unwind.
entilzah
2 posts
 
It's all relative, every hobby has a stratosphere. I go to gun shows and see $50,000 shotguns that some people use to hunt or compete with. Those same people can be waxed in competition by a poor bumpkin with a $1200 gun. Then they console ourselves that even though they lost, "they looked damn good doing it." [:)]

First ask how important nirvana is to you. What will you sacrifice for it. And is it worth it. Do you really have golden ears. How much difference can you "really" hear. Just being in a high end salon looking at all the toys will get your ears burning. Be conscious of that. I REALLY hate to quote Star Trek, but, "You may find wanting is far more satisfying a thing than having." I know I've lusted for stuff bought it and even though it is really nice I sometimes question the purchase in hindsight. (see the spritual vs. material posts) Somebody is always going to have a better system. Millions will have worse ones. Try not to get the "fever" (easier said than done.) And try to find that sweet spot. In the end, a stellar system could make a big difference in the quality of your "golden years." Life is hard, especially when you try to live it with wisdom. I know I'm still learning. Whew!! too deep think I'll go for a walk and eat a cookie.
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