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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"
promero

Showing 1 response by phcollie

phcollie's avatar
phcollie
342 posts
 
Good Question OP.

What room will it reside in and for how long? That matters. If you are in a home and your listening room will not be changing for the next 15 years, then your build will not need to be flexible. For instance if you are in a 12x16 space La Scala may not be the right choice. Silly example, but the size and space you are working with will matter. I’m a builder by profession and yes, buying the right tool first has always been a good idea. Same w/Audio. Save and buy quality. Buy Demo when you can. Determine if you like Tubes, SS or both. Determine if you like Conventional vs Planar or Dipole Speakers. Take your time, wait and save, buy slightly above your affordability level and most important of all, hide this information from the wife.


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