Retroguy, I understand and agree with many of your opinions on audio. I form opinions by experience(in every sense of the word). The way all human beings do. I am not going to stand up, and give you a history of my audio experiences. That would be boring, among many other things. Suffice it to say that if you become a regular member of this site, the person I am(as well as other members) will be revealed to you on several levels. I do not subscribe to buying equipment sound unheard, if at all possible. More importantly, for electronics and/or speakers. You may be under the impression that you have been educated to the point where you feel you know what is important to know. If that is the case, I can assure you that your education is not yet complete(if it is even possible to attain). Interacting with the incredibly diverse and knowledgeable members of this site will teach you more than you would believe. That is, if you are of open enough mind to receive what they so graciously offer. I live on the east coast. For me to drive two hours(in any direction) brings me to an incredible amount of dealers. I can pretty much give a thorough audition to anything I am interested in. And, even more than one time. And I have the type of relationship with several dealers where I can perform a THOROUGH home audition of their equipment. I have learned that not everyone has this luxury. Some people live in areas where they do not have the opportunity to do this. They have to buy things based on our recommendations. That is why many of us offer our help in a heartfelt manner. We are talking about people's money and satisfaction here. Not to mention our own reputations. I agree that it would be nice to become infinitely familiar with a product before purchase. That is however, a utopian idea on many fronts. Working at a dealership is one of the few ways that affords this way of doing things. By that logic, you would only buy things that you would be selling; those being the only components you are capable of knowing on such level. Some could argue that would be more tragic than one who does not audition at all, but solely relies on the opinions of fellow Audiogon members. I think the ultimate goal of this hobby is enjoyment. However that goal is attained. I have found that those who don't espouse their knowledge or listening skills in an "I'm better than you are" mentality usually enjoy themselves more than those in the other group. Hope you take the time to join us for the long haul. I can assure you, it has been a tremendously rewarding endeavor for me.
