I too was an amateur "ham" as a kid in the 60s, and a wunder-kid baroque organist. Now I'm in a more romantic period with my lovingly-restored (and FINALLY broken in--takes TWO YEARS to burn in the new Swedish steel strings...that's why most rebuilders don't use 'em!) Steinway B. Am enjoying my new-found improvisational abilities, meager as they are. Wish I was better steeped in our great jazz history. Voicing this piano, as well a few crossover designs has taught me what's important in this hobby. (e.g., it's interesting to note that a 5-10% change in relative humidity affects the sound way more than most cable-swaps!) I've had a one-person used Subaru business long enough to not get too excited about cars anymore, but I do enjoy my MR2 Turbo in nice weather. (2000's dot.compost phenomena has pretty much destroyed any chances of getting that Boxster S, esp. with daughters' tuitions, etc.) Linkster: cute idea--perhaps I should name my road-bike "Parsifal Encore"? My wife's the prof cook, but I've had fun tweaking a seventeen-spice "berbere" rub that makes my chicken to die for! I'm adding a rowing machine regimen to my Tai Chi, and just shaved my beard for the first time in 30 years, so something's abrew...hmmm. My ref system is hopefully nearing completion, so I hope to spend major time reading and listening to music as well as polishing those Schubert Sonatas. I have quite a few prof musician friends, and am toying with the idea of piano-trio work, as well. Visiting these threads is a Catch 22 for me...taking away time from the above...but I'm glad the Audiogon community is there (except the flamers) for me to make the connection. Thanks. Ernie
