Anyone who has attempted to learn how to read music and play an instrument (or sing in a choir) knows what it takes to produce a good sound whether or not they pursue it or quit after awhile. After that you can think whatever you want, but give it a try first. Your ear should tell you what you need to know for life. I can listen to a transistor radio- and that's all I had for a long time back then. Good sound isn't expensive either. It's the kind of equipment that tends to disappear from the room that can make you all crazy. But It also has to be fun along the way (with a bit of pain on the side), but don't forget the days you sat (perhaps for hours) and practiced. I feel (for myself) it's the only way- when you have some skin in the game.
Another Music Direct Catalog observation
I didn't want to hijack an existing thread about the current catalog's Joni cover so I started this one.
You know, I was thinking about this after I received my catalog and how burned out I was on "boomer music". I know as a Gen Xer, I've been saturated by Boomer culture since I came of age in the 80's, and my appreciation for these artists has waned in part because of their saturation in audiophile circles.
Yes, the MD catalog does pay lip service to contemporary artists, but its adherence to a musical paradigm that peaked 45 years ago or so is symptomatic of the undeniable waning of "hi-fi" as a hobby.
You know, I was thinking about this after I received my catalog and how burned out I was on "boomer music". I know as a Gen Xer, I've been saturated by Boomer culture since I came of age in the 80's, and my appreciation for these artists has waned in part because of their saturation in audiophile circles.
Yes, the MD catalog does pay lip service to contemporary artists, but its adherence to a musical paradigm that peaked 45 years ago or so is symptomatic of the undeniable waning of "hi-fi" as a hobby.