Wisdom in that last post shadorne re: expectations. IME, there are the step-function improvements that result from moving step by step from mi-fi to hi-fidelity equipment, especially speakers and sources. Also getting the room right. Lots of "Holy Cow" moments during that phase. Lots of fun. This is the "audio enthusiast" phase.
Then the path becomes one of discovering the strengths and weaknesses of what was created in phase one. Some changes are usually inevitable depending on how wisely you chose and frankly how lucky you were re: the extent that changes are necessary. Lots of fallout in this phase so I think of it as the "sorting out" phase, both of equipment and also "the listener" that has now evolved (or fallen away).
Once that is sorted, then comes the phase of "the serious listener", comparing different very-good to excellent source components, improvements in cabling and the quality of AC power, vibration elimination, etc. Differences/improvement is often subtle compared to the earlier phase, but are just as significant to a serious listener as these things then determine whether you created a microscope, a telescope or merely some sunglasses.
All along the way, one learns, or should learn, not to hastily judge changes as it is almost always a mistake.
I do not agree however with prescribing things such as whether or not to use a preamp between DAC and amplifier as there are too many variables in each system and listener preferences, so others should simply be encouraged to experiment and decide for themselves.
Dave
Then the path becomes one of discovering the strengths and weaknesses of what was created in phase one. Some changes are usually inevitable depending on how wisely you chose and frankly how lucky you were re: the extent that changes are necessary. Lots of fallout in this phase so I think of it as the "sorting out" phase, both of equipment and also "the listener" that has now evolved (or fallen away).
Once that is sorted, then comes the phase of "the serious listener", comparing different very-good to excellent source components, improvements in cabling and the quality of AC power, vibration elimination, etc. Differences/improvement is often subtle compared to the earlier phase, but are just as significant to a serious listener as these things then determine whether you created a microscope, a telescope or merely some sunglasses.
All along the way, one learns, or should learn, not to hastily judge changes as it is almost always a mistake.
I do not agree however with prescribing things such as whether or not to use a preamp between DAC and amplifier as there are too many variables in each system and listener preferences, so others should simply be encouraged to experiment and decide for themselves.
Dave