New Component Upgrade Success Rate


I like to try a new component once in a while when the upgrade bug hits.  Cables, tubes, power cords, power conditioners, headphones, maybe even something major like a preamp or a DAC.  I've noticed my successful adoption rate is pretty low and I usually end up returning the new component.  About one out of every four or five attempts is a success.  I'm batting about .200.   What is your successful adoption rate when you try something new?
mward

Showing 1 response by bdp24

Dave---Vibration isolation? So you too are "delusional"? (read the entire "Do equipment stands have an impact on electronics" thread for context ;-).

MWard---Up above you said you think you just like your existing sound too much to change it. The obvious question then, is what are you hoping for when you try a new piece? Anything specific, or just a general desire for improvement? That’s kind of like shooting in the dark, ain’t it? Without a definite goal in mind, an "improvement" is just a happy coincidence, purely by luck.

Having been much younger than I am now when I did just as you are doing, and by wisdom of experience now realize, I would have been better off just listening to the music, and waiting for a specific shortcoming in my system to become apparent before trying a new piece that I have reason to believe will cure that shortcoming. Just some "fatherly" advice ;-). If you like your system that much, relax and enjoy it and the music. Life is short! I say that as about ten friends of mine have died in the past eight years.