Yes. But I tend to read reviews and look for consensus opinion. IE- if one reviewer considers a piece to be the best ever, while other reviewers say it is just -ok- then maybe it is just -ok-. Or if all reviews, across multiple platforms etc, agree that the component is wonderful, that also sends a powerful message.
I have purchased the following without prior audition:
KEF LS50
ARC SP-10mkII
AT 33ML-OCC
Lundahl and Cinemag SUT
Marantz SR7009 (then TOTL HT Receiver for our Den)
While an audition helps in decision making, a new component represents a variable that you will not be able to confirm until the component is in your home, in your system. Still a leap (but smaller) faith.
I have purchased the following without prior audition:
KEF LS50
ARC SP-10mkII
AT 33ML-OCC
Lundahl and Cinemag SUT
Marantz SR7009 (then TOTL HT Receiver for our Den)
While an audition helps in decision making, a new component represents a variable that you will not be able to confirm until the component is in your home, in your system. Still a leap (but smaller) faith.