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the process is more challenging than the result

it is my hypothesis that the process of "perfecting" or attempting to attain a specific "sond" from one's stereo system is more challenging and enjoyable than listening to the stereo system after a particular "result" has been acieved.

while it is enjoyable to listen to music on a stereo system, the steps taken to satisfy your sonic goals are more interesting, self-actualizing and "fun", than passively listening to music.

as has been said, one can get most of the benefits of listening to music on a table radio, that one gets from listening to music played through a well set-up stereo system.

there is no substitute for experimenting, tinkering,trial and error ,experiencing new "sounds", and hopefully,achieving the type of sound one truly desires.

such a quest, could be the reason so many used components are available for sale.

many are in this hobby because they are chasing their dream of sonic utopia, rather than strictly to listen to music.
mrtennis
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shadorne
7,467 posts
 
once the stereo system has been configured to satisfy the requirements of its owner, if it is feasible, the quest is over.

This assumes that the requirements are well defined and not a moving target!

IMHO, the only known cure for the endless audiophile gear merry-go-round compulsion is Norwegian Blue Tack.
markphd
667 posts
 
I don't think a person who changes things regularly will ever reach their goal and be satisfied. It's not like a test where you can get 100% and can't go higher. There is no ultimate score in audio upgrading. It's Shadorne's point about a moving target. There are always new developments and improvements to be investigated for those with the inclination to do so. I don't think that the psychology of those who constantly change things is such that they would stop if they learn or hear about new things. It hasn't stopped them before, why would they stop now?
musicnoise
377 posts
 
The real danger is reaching the goal of a perfect system. Then there is nothing to do - existential angst - either accept Camus' absurdity of life and wait for death, or, find a new challenge. But no need to go seeking, grasshopper - countless changes of equipment will not only keep the fire burning but will fuel the economy - uh,oh - with all this reference to fuel, burning and fire, the Al Gore police will be coming for me soon.
mrtennis OP
3,295 posts
 
the quest is not to achieve a perfect stsereo system, as there is no perfect stereo system. the goal would be to achieve a particular voicing or tuning of the stereo system to suit one's taste. such a stereo system would be deliberately colored, in a way to please the listener.

there would be no reason to change any component, because the desired flavor would have been achieved.

it is like adding white to the color red, until the desired shade is achieved. there would be no need to change at that point.

the target is not moving. it is a fixed target, such as a particular frequency response.
macrojack
1,303 posts
 
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