avoiding component purchase errors :part 2


in my previous discussion, i mentioned the importance of being aware of personality traits which may conflict with the sound that results froma particular component selection.

it is important that one be aware of one's preferences. if one has no idea what type of presentation is enjoyable, the result will be numerous purchases and sales in the quest of finding one's audio nirvana. one may be lucky at some point and achieve it, or one may continue to buy and sell for years and years.

it's a good thing that seious audio hobbyists do not "change" their spouses as often as they change their equipment.

if one has a desire to create a sound that conflicts with one's psychological makeup, the equipment will change frequently, but the persoanlity will probably not change.

better to have your tastes in sound consistent with your psychological make up, once you have figured out both.

as an example, consider the dimensions of stimulus intensity and complexity, and consider that most manufacturers design for maximum resolution, while the paragon of a high quality stereo system is also maximal resolution.

human being differe with respect to sensitivity of nervous systems to income stimuli and their ability to process data in a time fashion.

if you overload your brain and nervous system, you will take an action to achieve a comfort level.

if you want more and more detail and clarity, you may reach a point weher you have excede your threshold of tolerance.

such a situation puts your desires in conflict with your physiological and psychological capabilities. this is a recipe for eroors adn more buying and selling.

numerous studies have demonstrated that an intermediate level of complexity and intensity is an optimal state.

what levels of complexity and intensity are ideal for an individual, must be ascertained, creatively by that individual.

one need not be ashamed to admit that backing away from a high resolution stereo system may be better for one's health.

too many of us are concerned about being criticized by others for liking a sound which others consider inferior.

most of the time we listen alone and it is better to please ourselves than please the few friends who come over and share our listening experiences.
mrtennis

Showing 1 response by sbrtoy

If you are not interested in trial and error, or if you do not wish to change the sound of your system, why would you be on Audiogon anyhow? Anyone who was happy with the sound of their system and content in this "intermediate" level of sound would likely be surfing forums on new disc releases, rare vinyl, etc.

There is always excitement in purchasing new gear, and let's face it, it really is just a new toy regardless of how important music may be to your relaxation or state of mind.

Anyhow, I have built incredible systems only to tear them down and start over with something that sounds like crap several times...it's the challenge and research required to get it back to snuff that is half the fun.