Change your perspective, turn it to an advantage. Make it a road trip/vacation to an audio show. It'll blow your mind and give you more ideas of fabulous sound than you ever dreamed! If you play it right you can buy show demos at discount and haul them home for your next dream system.
OR use the classifieds here and the location search to zero in on your zip code. You can find/hear stuff in your locale and get premium gear way beyond the chain stores.
Don't be afraid of home dealers. I frequented one in my city and they were instrumental in selling and guiding me way back when. Some home dealers are excellent.
Finally, count yourself blessed to have to drive only 2 hours. I cannot remember the number of times I have done two hours to hear gear. Likely in the dozens. You want the dream system? Work for it.
Don't despair - conquer! :)
OR use the classifieds here and the location search to zero in on your zip code. You can find/hear stuff in your locale and get premium gear way beyond the chain stores.
Don't be afraid of home dealers. I frequented one in my city and they were instrumental in selling and guiding me way back when. Some home dealers are excellent.
Finally, count yourself blessed to have to drive only 2 hours. I cannot remember the number of times I have done two hours to hear gear. Likely in the dozens. You want the dream system? Work for it.
Don't despair - conquer! :)