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Buying the right tool (aka gear) the first time...

As a tinkerer in areas like woodworking, the old adage of "buy the right tool the first time" has always been my philosophy. This way of thinking seems to be somewhat at odds with my new interest in 2 channel Hi-Fi.  More specifically, what is the "right audio gear" the first time? I know many folks start somewhere and work their way up to higher end gear as their preferences/and budgets evolve.

My question are here:
If one has the means to jump into higher end gear, should they or should they start budget and work their way up?
If one does jump into higher end gear, would a newbie appreciate it versus those that work their way up?
Am I overthinking this?

This is an opportunity to openly state "what you should do .... comments"
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Showing 1 response by mrklas

mrklas
441 posts
 
I think your thinking about it the right way.

8 years ago I separated my home theatre from my listening room and over the past 2 years I've effectively replaced my system.

If you live near a big city with a reputable dealer I'd suggest you sit and listen to a bunch of stuff with them to have you understand a bit of the options.  Then listen to any system you can - even from the dealers with less than stellar reputations to gain some perspective.  (Even a bad perspective can be enlightening).

One of the best things I did during my upgrade path was talk with my dealer and let him know my path because I was able to get several used items demo and a customer who tried something different and didn't like it.  It was a win/win because the dealer got to happy customers.
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