top ten things you learned about HiFi on Agon


Here's my list in some semblance of order:

1. how to more critically listen to music and determine what my system is doing right and what areas could stand some improvement
2. room shape and speaker position matter a lot
3. about other websites where I can get more detailed information on a particular subject
4. importance of the source
5. importance of good power cables
6. importance of a solid foundation for your equipment
7. importance of tonearm and cartridge matching and setup
8. about silver fuses
9. concepts related to amp and speaker matching
10. the concept of overall system balance and working towards a particular system sound.

I have really learned quite a bit by coming on this site. I generally used to think I knew my way around HiFi gear, having built speakers and owned various systems over the years, some that worked "pretty good" (put together by budget, market research, ear and accident), and some... well, not-so-much. I have a much better idea of where my understanding is now (thus the screen name), and feel like I am only scratching the surface.

With that said, every time I listen to my system these days I am aware of how much better it sounds compared to only a few years ago - due in large part to advice based on your writings and rantings on here. And this accomplished by adding many tweaks, a few key accessories and without adding or swapping very many major parts over that time span (except three turntables and four cartridges [but no microphone!]). Thanks Agoners for all the great information!!!
Ag insider logo xs@2xknownothing

Showing 1 response by newbee

Can't get to 10 without repeating what others have contributed, but here are a couple....

Most audiophiles listen to sound, not music.

Most audiophiles listen to what sounds good before paying attention to performance quality.

Many audiophiles think that great 'stereo imaging' will get them closer to the sound of a live performance.

Most audiophiles don't get out much and listen to live, unamplified, music. That way they can fantasize about how close their system's sound is to live sound.

Many audiophiles will spend a lot of money to obtain the bragging rights to say its not a fantasy.

Many audiophiles confuse (or substitute) a hobby for a religion or politics.

Many audiophiles are pining away for speakers that sound good in their rooms placed against the wall, or better yet in a corner. And, having failed, want to get some different cables, amps, whatever, to achieve this placement.

And, I just love Elizabeth's last paragraph. If you don't know the answer to a question you ask, how can you determine which of the answers you are given is correct? If any. And, if you do know the answer are you a troll?

Sorry, its a slow day! :-)