What makes / defines an audiophile ?

You must be certifiably insane to spend this much time & money on intangible idiosyncrasies; & then love it anyway... You'll definitely know it when you get there - arrrgh!

Stereophile; Absolute Sound; piled up in different rooms. Recognizing audio manufactures from model nos. alone. Example; TNT 3, JP80 MC, VK60, ML-1, etc...... Are the kids in bed yet? Maintaining at least 5 audio sites in "my favorites" on the computer. Checking Audiogon daily, even though nothing new is required. Responding to these threads.

you're reading this thread and found out that you fit into some of the description (or sympton :-) ) And you will check audioweb.com, audioreview.com or the like more than once a week.....

The true "audio"phile: someone who in spite of having a system costing multi kilobucks can enjoy a trashy recording of a great performance on a cheapo system. Caveat: "great performances" does not include (c)rap.

Any idiot that can't enjoy the music and is constantly obsessed with his Hi-fi gear. (i.e. don't become one)!