2. misc-audio
  3. 1145061424

Expectations low, listening pleasure high.

I am listening to a $300 minisystem, and am thoroughly
enjoying the experience. This is in stark contrast to my
experience with my highend stuff. Although I feel I have
the right components and synergy, I never quite feel as
though I am enjoying myself because I am either making
judgments on the sound, or because so much money was
spent I expect so much in return. Now I know that my
kilobuck system sounds better than the mini, but it makes
me wonder when this obsession with sound quality interferred
with actually listening to the performance. I figure it all
started with magazine reviews, and countless number
of components to achieve what will never be. It seems we/I
will always focus on what is not right with our systems because
nothing is perfect. And thats where I think everything went
wrong; Imagine what would happen in our day to day relationships
if we traded in our friends and spouses like we do our equipment.
I guess the enjoyment comes in the constant pushing of that boulder up the hill like Camus's Sisyphus. Anyone else experience this phenomenon?
Now back to Stan Getz on the mini.
cody

Showing 1 response by arkprof

arkprof
182 posts
 
Clearly, at least to me, we are simply talking about the subjective factor, which is no small consideration. When I'm desperate to upgrade or feeling down because I can't afford another $3k or whatever, I put on some music I enjoy and accompany it with a nice merlot or cabernet when in the mood. I find myself totally happy, of course. I don't try to convince myself that "upgrading" is a loser's take on reality ... as, for example, I've been through four amps in the past 13 months ... and the one I've got now pleases me the most, though it isn't even close to being the most expensive of the group. The other amps were very good, but this one works extremely well with my speakers. My speakers are the most enjoyable I've ever had in 40+ years of have some sort of audio "system." I'm selling an expensive SACD/CD player for one that is better, even though it will cost $100s less.

I'm spending a lot less money but, not so surprisingly, "upgrading" at the same time. I don't have extreme "expectations," but I have found the musical experience that really registers with me.

I understand the broader criticism/comment, and I share it, but I've never been as happy as I am now with the audio I experience in my home.
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