Hi-end audio is a big zero


This is no knock on dealers, It's just how hi-end audio is.

I go listen to some speakers. He has them set up like crap - jammed between 3 other pair. Running on electronics I would never choose so I have to try and compensate for what I imagine they are contributing to the sound. Then after 30 minutes, I am expected to shell out the $4,500.00.

I narrowed it down to two transports from an online retailer. And who knows if those 2 are even a good choice?  Told point blank, I am not allowed to buy both and return the one I don''t want. Just pick one and buy it. Shell out $1,000-$3,500 based on what?

One e-tailer will allow purchase 3 speakers totally $12K and return the two I don't want. Sorry, i have a conscience and can't do it to him.

Read all you want. Talk all you want. Listen at dealers all you want. But unless you listen in your own room, it's all meaningless. I'm talking even just 5 to 30 minutes can be all it takes. But that is basically impossible.

Sure you can buy and sell on A-gon or Ebay if you find what you want have the time to go through the process.

If the prices weren't so high or I did not care about sound quality maybe it would not matter.

cdc

@jerryg123 , if you have time can you please post your virtual system in your profile? Thanks

I purchased my first stereo system as soon as graduating from college with an engineering degree in 1974.   I decided I needed a cassette player and I thought as long as it had Dolby who cares about the rest of it.    The salesman at now defunct Pacific Stereo convinced me to buy a dated but quality Wallensack cassette player.   He was correct.   Later, I excitedly purchased an early CD player, harsh and unpleasant from the start.  I would rather listen  to old tube radios,   My conclusion, our sensory perceptions are still beyond what can be measured.   Why fight it and listen to what we find pleasing    

@kota1 

"There has never been a better time in history to get into this hobby."

Well stated, sir.  Couldn't agree more.

@cdc - this is exactly why as a manufacturer of audio components, we set-up our own Listening Room.  We encourage people to come here our systems and also to bring their own equipment so that they can hear what things could sound like in their own system.  We also get to hear things also.  We enjoy meeting new people and learning form each other.

We are in Northern New Jersey if anyone wants to come by and enjoy music.