WAF, Help, Need Strategy


Hello Folks.

Nee some suggestions or stratigies.

I just got back from the house im buying, was working on laying hardwood floors, picked out the paint, and ran cables for surround in the living room. (buying the house off of her mother who wants to move due to empty nest syndrome)
It is a modest 225,000 house in denver, (houses are expencive here) The living room is about 20ft by 20ft, big enough for the TV, AV rack, surround, couple couches, recliner, plants, whatever.

I was talking with the fiancee, and she said we could put one of the couches over in a spot that I had already decided my 2 channel system would go. I mentioned that and she rolled her eyes and gave me "The look"

I know some people like having a dedicated listening room, but I feel uncomfortable being tucked away, I like being in the main living area.

I don't want to integrate HT and 2 channel, and I'm making a lot of compromises.

The surround sound setup will use a Denon 2803/3803 and Definitive Technologys Promonitor 60 setup. Nice, small, easy to conceal, and it sounds pretty darn good too.

The 2 channel system will comprise Green Mountain Audio Europa's, a Krell 300 integrated, My DVD-A player, and possible down the road a nice small Rel Subwoofer.

Neither system will be very intrusive, Im already sold on the Europa's, cheap, excellent quality, and not too big.
The Krell 300IL is a nice looking piece of machinery as well. Plus it will match the walls.

Basically, ive given up on full range floorstanders, tried to choose equipment that would match the décor, and put a lot of thought into a system we could both enjoy.

She still aint buying into the idea though. I explained how it would match the décor, I explained both systems would do a good job of blending in with the room, and would not stand out and be imposing, but im still having a hard time getting this to fly.

Any suggestions?

How did you get the wife to accept the gear you wanted, in the room you wanted it? And tricks? Tips? Suggestions?
slappy

Showing 1 response by bwyoung

Been married 22 years. Wife had no idea when we married how twisted I would become in the audio department. Over the years there have been many compromises, but I have to say she has put up with a lot, mostly financial inconvenience. However, my system is pretty intrusive in our family room.
I concur with some of the excellent advice given above. I would choose the best 10 and read them several times.
As for my $.02;
A) Your reasons for keeping 2 channel separate from HT are not very compelling. With today's technology and your present equipment, I don't see your argument. The Krell 300iL is perfect for integrating the 2 channel with your HT.
B) My wife has been 'moved' more by the MUSIC and the differences in sound than any other single factor. You should not be in a big hurry to see this transformation, or you will lose!
C) Over the years my wife has realized that this is more than a passing fad or hobby with me and first tolerated it, then accepted it, and now supports it. She has seen how much I enjoy this hobby. I mean how great is it when your wife buys you a $6,500 piece of audio gear for Christmas, or last anniversary she buys me a $1,400 pair of Transparent UltraXL speaker cables for biwiring my B&W's. (They know her by name down at the local high end dealer in part because she drives a hard bargain and can garner equipment discounts much better than I).
D) Take the slow approach. You will probably change your equipment many, many times over the years. Every time it seems to get more expensive. Don't win this battle and lose the war.
E) It's only stuff! Plus, it's stuff that will be outdated in a very short while. Shoot, your stuff is already outdated. Put your wife first.