A collection of reviews can be helpful if options are limited. That and try to choose newer equipment in good shape and that's favorable among the masses so turning it over again wont be as much trouble. Youll have to eat shipping fees but its not as painful as getting stuck with something you really didn't want.
Buying Without Audition
Surely I'm not the only one with the dilemma of living out in the boonies with no audio equipment dealer (other than Walmart) within 100+ miles. How does one choose among the many speakers offered in any given price range without listening to them before buying? The reviews are often skewed by self interest and, in any event, what you hear and what you like is completely subjective and the prosaic descriptions in the reviews mean different thing to different people. After all, you really can't accurately describe in words what someone else might hear. The problem is compounded if you wish to buy "used" from a private party as there often is no right of return, and when there is, the cost of shipping both ways is a significant consideration, especially when looking for floor speakers.
Any educated suggestions?
Any educated suggestions?