Well this is one of the best threads I've seen in a while. Being new, I was prone to believe that the 'experienced' here would determine what I should buy and how I must assemble my system. However, enough posts of this nature taught me to evaluate each post, recommendation, opinion or review with a view towards what the component/tweak/system actually sounds like, and whether that sound is one that I find appealing or will work with the component(s) I already have. Ultimately, of course this is a subjective pursuit -- but where to start? Even the die-hard discussions as to what the best format is -- digital or vinyl -- and the like, were very useful. These threads introduced me to the issues at stake and, to some extent, the work and costs involved. I applaud the passionate, but absolutely value the occasional level headed assessment of this pursuit by those members who have actually tried many different components and approaches. We are lucky to have them and even the engineers who try to explain what is happening and what the limits of this that or the other thing may be. Not being an electrical engineer, most of this is lost on me. But, nonetheless in less than a year, by following this forum and reading many reviews I have managed to put together a system that sounds fantastic to me, is tolerated by my wife and thoroughly enjoyed by our guests. Couldn't have done it without this group.
The myth of "best" in audio needs to be addressed by all of us
After spending a year and half deeply immersed in audiophilia (with so much enjoyable benefit), I've identified my tendency (seemingly share by many) to chase the fantasy of "best" in this perfectionistic hobby/pursuit. It leads to obsessiveness, second-guessing, acrimony between audio tribes, and personal insecurity when reading these forums and all the reviews.
But, thinking about it, how could there ever be a "best" component, cable, or speaker for listening to music. This is a subjective experience!!!
From a purely measurement/engineering perspective -- "best" could mean a lot of things (but they don't automatically mean more enjoyable sonics).
In listening and enjoying music, there is no "best" -- only "favorite". And even "favorite" can change -- it certainly has for me. I've gone back and forth multiple times on all sorts of gear preferences. You can like what you like, you don't have to defend it, and nobody should mess with it!
Anybody else want to fight the harmful myth of "best" in audio?
But, thinking about it, how could there ever be a "best" component, cable, or speaker for listening to music. This is a subjective experience!!!
From a purely measurement/engineering perspective -- "best" could mean a lot of things (but they don't automatically mean more enjoyable sonics).
In listening and enjoying music, there is no "best" -- only "favorite". And even "favorite" can change -- it certainly has for me. I've gone back and forth multiple times on all sorts of gear preferences. You can like what you like, you don't have to defend it, and nobody should mess with it!
Anybody else want to fight the harmful myth of "best" in audio?