Friends hi-fi system not very good, what do you do or say?


So you're going over to someones home and they give you a tour and they have a hi-fi system in a room. And while visiting of course they turn it on for you not knowing that you have a very nice system in your home and you notice immediately it's just not very good.  But then you're used to the very in you're listening experiences. So what do you do when they ask you what you think?

Do you say sounds really good?

Do you make suggestions?

Do you feel a desperate need to tell them about your system?

Personally, I try not to mention any details about my system. If I'm driving around in a Lamborghini I would prefer to be invisible so I don't get stared at when I get out of my car. If they had a really nice system with interesting components I would probably mention a few of the things I have and then we could bond with our common interests.   Ideally, it would be cool to be in the presence of someone who knew a lot more than I did and a real learning opportunity.

Audio systems tend to be private affairs I guess.  I don't necessarily want to hang out with someone and listen to tunes. Those wonderful College days where it made a lot of sense are long gone.

emergingsoul

Showing 1 response by jsalerno277

There is a number of good peer reviewed articles on giving constructive criticism from a human resource perspective on the internet.  The principles apply in all situations, not only the workplace.  Constructive criticism should not criticize but rather focus on some obtainable recommendations or suggestions on how to make improvements based on your experience.   Give constructive criticism between statements of praise.  For example, state it is obvious you put much work into equipment selection.  I have found room treatment can have a significant effect on SQ and you should consider this.  Use “I” phrases is suggestion (I… think, recommend, consider, etc.) rather than “you” commands (you…should do)..Provide examples from your experience.  Be empathetic.  Put yourself in their position and think about how you would want to hear the criticism and what specific words would be most helpful to you.  Express your passion and knowledge enthusiastically without being condescending.  Constructive criticism encourages someone to learn and grow.  Destructive criticism discourages someone and makes them feel inadequate.  Constructive criticism is specific and includes action plans. Destructive criticism is vague and confusing. Constructive criticism is delivered with empathy. Destructive criticism often includes harsh and confusing language.