Isn't a wondeful time to be an audiophile?

It is an amazing time to be into audio.  I am not certain what makes an audiophile, but I bought my first system with separate amp, tuner, 3 way speakers, reel to reel about 50 years ago.

That was the move from the record player with cheap cheesy speakers to what I considered serious audio.

It has bee a long journey since, and about 15 years ago I had some success with my rare coin hobby and some real estate that turned out well and I got back into quality audio gear.

The choices available today are amazing.  While the highest end has gone crazy in terms of cost, serious stuff is out there that can make Eva Cassidy sound like she is standing in the room singing to you and it can be acquired over time.  Used equipment is a great value if you know what you are buying.   

And the great part is that you can upgrade one piece at a time as funds permit.  I ran thru a number of amps before getting my “keeper” pair of mono blocks.

My only regret is too many live concerts and the high end of my hearing is shot - hint, ear protection when it is LOUD.

One thing I think may be a bit different today is that when I went to college, everyone listened to music.  Whether played on a cheap grind o matic stereo or a decent for the day component system, we all listened to each other’s favorites from 68-72.   

I was introduced to Jethro Tull, early Steve Miller while sharing Janis Joplin, Cream, Allman Bros, then hearing Roberta Flack, etc.  It went on and on as the men and women in my social circle all owned albums.  Everyone seemed to have a different favorite and we all grew as a result.   I am not certain that goes on as much these days.

I view the term audiophile as a lover of good music.  We all have different budgets and situations.  Now that the statute of limitations has passed, I have many funny and interesting stories from those times.

I also agree with Elizabeth about newbies and the information they receive regarding gear.   My system has been stable for a while, but there seems to be a proliferation of new equipment and technology in the past number of years.