Trelja- I haven't followed Stereophile in a while, but I think the qualification of Class C being affordable was more like it would could include affordable pieces that still bring some high end attributes, not that affordable gear only went into Class C. However, based on some of the other comments on this thread, maybe its not that way anymore. When you're buying over the net and you don't have lots of other hobbiest friends whose gear you can listen to, this should help you find a starting place for purchases. I for one do not feel comfortable going into a showroom, auditioning lots of items, then heading home to purchase on net, so I have to rely on these ratings and the advise of others I meet here and elsewhere.
Wrong direction?
The few "threads" back, a young man was inquiring about class "A" amp. And of course, most of the responses were in regard to class "A" amplifier, also understood by myself as such. Later, the same individual mentioned if able to "...find amp like that, he would further look for class "A" speakers!" Class A speakers? Well, i was wondering what could that be?...For a second i realized that he is referring to a Stereophile grading of the audio equipment! While i have and will be guilty of buying the audio products, unheard, i sure didn't base my decisions on one reviewer opinion or another! Stereophile sale doubles, and sometimes triples during the months of October, and April. "Recommended components" run those months. And the biggest offender, i think, is What HIFI, which reminds of audio "Swap Meet" periodical, with their little flags of "Best buy", or "component of choice" etc, etc...! Stereophile rates their components in class A, B, C and on.... Let see,... between class A and B, what was the determine factor to place the certain product to one or another? Room, cables...mood? So many variables, and controlled and uncontrolled events to "make or brake" one company, or sway one potential customer from buying the pre-amp, that he thought and felt was the ONE. But just changing his mind to purchase another, which was graded one STAR higher! I think, the magazines would be doing the consumer a favor, if those ratings and grading are eliminated. Let the consumer to decide! Especially audio components.