High End Audio-Gaining Higher Ground?

In regards to my statement above, I can't understand why my checking account is out of funds when I still have alot more checks left to write.

Very good indepth answers above, too bad you guys weren't
present at this particular meeting with the so called
reknowned audio engineers, it would of made for a much more
interesting session.

Bcgator, that is a very good question, I'm not sure what
constitutes a high end system, that would be an excellent
thread to initiate on it's own. Ask a question here on
audiogon what is the best preamp, amp, and speaker
combinition you will get a hundred different answers. I
suppose if you have been listening to a table-top radio for
the past few years anything above that could be considered
higher end. Lets go with that analogy.

Jmcgrogan2, it is interesting that the Japanese people love american made audio gear and motorcycles. Last time I read they also embrace the American 1950's lifestyle. I don't think they have bought into the new hip hop scene. I wonder what manufacturers from Asia that Americans seek.

Frogman, that is very interesting, I had thought there would be pockets of interest for hip hop but the last time I was in Japan was the early eighties. Thanks for the heads up.

Mapman what a great idea to start a charity funded by rich audiophiles. How many audiophiles (attorneys, doctors) have gone out and purchased a very expensive system as a status symbol, a trophy as to impress the world they have the means and way to buy what some of us could only dream of, only to let it go because they didn't have the time or interest to listen to such a system. I think I have more respect for an audiophile that has invested the money methodically, piece by piece over a period of time to reach their goal. We shall make you the secretary of treasurer to oversee this charity.

Dave_72 you already know about expensive mistakes, I have made a few mistakes myself, not anymore. I have a problem giving advice to anyone who has just entered this hobby and what to recommend because it will take a few years of trial and error to get a grip on what sounds good for yourself. It was of little consequence to try different products over time because it was very easy to turn gear over on Audiogon at the time, so very few dollars were lost, I don't think it is that easy now.

Hazyj, not to worry, things are picking up and the economy is moving right along. According to Obama, in the event the Federal Government runs out of money they will just print up alot more, they have done it before. Our kids will do just fine!

Mapman, I would agree that we were dumbed down back then and as you mentioned with the internet and the ability to communicate world wide so easily, we are all much more informed these days. This is a double edge sword in my opinion since information can enrich our lives but can also make us more suspicious of our government & large corporations. In fact the internet is flooded with so much information that we are left with the daunting task to decifer the real truth and would have to read between the lines to do so.

Society as a whole has steadily declined and the younger folks are now refered to as the unemployable generation. This is a big factor in trying to get them interested in high end audio coupled with the fact that more exposure is needed, at least so that they can see what is missing in their lives. I personally accept the idea that I might be part of a dying breed (still makes us unique and special) and I don't plan on going anywhere too soon and have no intentions on throwing the towel in as far as my involvement in high end audio. I still do my part getting younger people to listen to the alternative with an excellent response.

Zd542, I never thought of that before, I'm glad you did!