HOW MUCH DO NON-AUDIO FACTORS INFLUENCE YOUR AUDIO PURCHASES?


I think most audiophiles would like to think it's all about the sound, but for me there's often many factors not related specifically to sound quality, that play a big part when deciding what audio component to buy.  Perceived build quality, brand name reputation, specs, even things mostly related to appearance can have a big influence.  I have for years, pursued matched, one-brand systems and seemingly can not be truly content with my two-channel rig otherwise, regardless of the performance or build quality of specific components.  I sometimes think the whole process is, for me, more an exercise in obsessive behavior than a rational pursuit of a logical outcome.  So how about you?   Any tales of audiophilia nervosa  you'd be willing to share? 
jdmccall56

Showing 3 responses by simao

@aewarren well played. Reminds me of the classic Sansui adds I would watch as a kid. 
Interesting; I'm antithetical to the OP's MO of one-brand systems, and I'm really not sure why except that it seems too pedestrian. Which is a crap rationale, I realize. But I tend to get nervous if I have even two components made by the same brand (maybe cables are an exception).


In order:
Sound
Aesthetic
Brand recognition

@mahgister -- Your system has to be one of the most unusual and unconventional I've ever seen; you have the freedom to change and adapt your room as needed which many of us do not.
It's been a dry January for me and I've made a lot less audio purchases as a result. So I guess alcohol is a non-audio factor.