Hello deadhead1000. Just realize that at least half the people you talk to have very little experience and don't know what they are talking about. I started building speakers at age 10. I have over 70 years experience. I sold stereo gear for a living to 19+ years. I have paid attention to preserving my senses. I have the ears of a much younger man (and he upset about it!). I do read reviews (look for a full page ad nearby - draw the obvious conclusion). Realize that "If you are in the market for a speaker at this price point be sure to give it listen," means it's a dud. If the reviewer bought the evaluation sample, pay attention. Many salsemen work on commision. Steve Guttenburg, I consider a reliable source. Any magazine is in business to sell magazines. And . . . no two people ear the same thing. Our ear shapes are unique, not to mention our brains. And . . . experts insist 20% of all people have some form of mental illness, Like what you like. Person X doesn't like your cartridge, he probably doesn't like your wife either. Would you swap wives with him?
Does someone’s opinion affect your opinion?
So I have a very nice turntable with a new MC cartridge which I liked and enjoyed…that is until someone said that the cartridge was very “piercing” and in his opinion almost unlistenable. Now I find I am not enjoying it as much. Two things to add, he is not anymore “golden ear” than me, and the brands are well known with good reviews.
But now, I don’t enjoy it as much. I know I shouldn’t let it bother me, but it does and it has impacted my enjoyment.
So, has this happen to you and what did you do?