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How to meaningfully audition speakers??

I think this topic has appeared elsewhere, even if worded differently. But I thought I'd ask anyway.

Just upgraded my amp and was thinking about auditioning different speakers. Problem is that there are only a handful of high-end B&M stores nearby. Another complication is that no one store has the 2 or 3 speaker brands that I want to check out.

Further, I am dubious that one can meaningfully audition gear by running from store to store because the test conditions are not identical. In addition, unless a piece is really terrible or incredibly terrific, I don't trust my aural memory. Perhaps other have a different view.

Seems to me that the best way to accomplish what I want is to have the speakers of interest brought to my house and hooked up to my rig. But -- I am NOT aware of any dealer willing to part with expensive gear like that, especially if it has to be specially ordered from a distributor because the model is not on display.

So the Q is what do most folks do? Just buy speakers on hope and a prayer?? Rely on reviews or Forum comments??
bifwynne

Showing 1 response by ngjockey

ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
Never judge a book by it's cover. If, for example, you've had bad experiences with planars or metal tweeters, or whatever, I'll guarantee that there's something out there that's going to surprise you.

Consider your room, placement of speakers and the amplifiers requirements of the speakers.

When you're comparing mediocre to mediocre, it can be difficult but listen to as much as you can, even if they're out of your budget, and when something outstanding shows up, regardless of the room or other equipment, you'll know immediately. Those kind of breakthrough moments, are memorable. Question becomes whether you can afford it now or sometime down the road.
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