2. misc-audio
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How to shop for audio

I'd like to hear some advice regarding shopping for audio.

I own a pair of Eidolon Diamonds and wish to upgrade my electronics which are currently the Goldmund entry line gear. And I need to improve my cables.

But what to do? How to decide? Do I travel to Massachusetts to visit and listen at Goodwin’s or Overture in Philadelphia to hear a variety of electronics, etc. in environments I’m not accustomed to? These are theclosest stores I know of with significant inventory.

This is a lot of travel expense and hassle, but is it what I have to do? Plus, for me, it takes time to evaluate my likings. How can I decide in one visit? I’ve been to Atlanta, the closest big city reasonably nearby, for thorough shopping. Not much there.

The media is suspect. Like why is there never any Spectral, little Rowland, etc.? I doubt if it’s because their equipment isn’t “worthy”. I don’t see the mags virtually ever mentioning this fact

The media is little assistance, though I like looking at the shiny pictures.

What about just buying/testing through multiple AudiogoN buys? And try not to take much of a loss in the process.

And can you provide one more opinion regarding this:
I want solid state. I’ve been through tube hassle enough, and I’m a solid state man. If I want hassle, I’ll endure it via my phono system. Yet, on AudiogoN, especially among people with Eidolons, tubes seem to reign.

What the heck do I do about that? Can I ignore it like the media?

Be glad to hear your counsel.

thanks
shaq

Showing 1 response by cmo

cmo
471 posts
 
There are a couple of things that come to my mind....... You might try going to one of the good audio shows (sounds like RMAF is the best). You can hear and see lot's of new stuff at one time this way.

Find a good dealer who's opinion you trust (I think this is probably the best bet). I am lucky and live in Austin, TX and have 3-4 to choose from. I have become pretty good friends with at least one of them and I trust his ears/judgement.

Try to join an audio club, or make some friends who have systems you can get to know; hear new things. The more "different" systems I hear the easier it is to hone in on what I would like to do with my own system............ It wasn't until I heard a buddy's horn set-up that I realized I wanted to pursue low power and horns myself.

On the tube thing..... I cannot imagine tham not in my system. That realization came after listening to many "other" systems and realizing that the one's that floated my boat were all tube based.

Hope this helps a little

Chris
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