I vote for older and wiser.
Older And Wiser or just Tighter and Deafer?
I’m 63. I’m not wealthy but I have a tolerant wife and I still love to pursue great sound. But I find myself increasingly reluctant to spend significant amounts on new gear. I know my hearing acuity is not as good as it used to be, but my love of music and good sound is not diminished. When considering a purchase, I find myself factoring in cost versus life expectancy (mine!) and auditory function. I’ll even have some guilt about spending my kid’s inheritance. Is something wrong with me?
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- 94 posts total
Oh, I reward myself plenty! But like my long-suffering better half says, "Does it ever end?". To which I sheepishly reply, under my breath..."probably not". I used to think it would end and that I would eventually arrive at that place called "audio nirvana" where peace and contentment, not to mention audio bliss, would reign. But I've gradually come to the realization that the pursuit, the journey is a lot of the fun. That and the fact that the target keeps moving, and well, you know the rest of the story. |
OP, I think your feelings are pretty normal and average. (for someone with our disease) I personally feel satisfied that my system is very good considering my financial means, but I still try different amps, tweaks etc. as I can afford them just to try different flavors of good, and to mark things off of my mental "want to try" list while I am alive and able to enjoy them. |
If it isn't going to make a difference in your listening habits, and you have no known system weaknesses, I'd spend money on new content. i.e. My recent switch from SS amp and SS pre-amp back to tubes has been a restoration of prior levels of enjoyment. i.e. my dual arm turntable project, (mix of vintage and new) addition of a dedicated mono cartridge, and willingness to properly clean my existing lps 10 at a time has made a significant difference, to both quality and enhancing enjoyment of existing content. Donna, being home more and aware of the entire process over several months, is learning to listen like never before, and we enjoy more music together than ever. |
If you look up Chapter 27 in Robert Harley's Complete Guide to High End Audio you will find the section on how to determine appropriate component budget expenditures adjusted for life expectancy. Be sure to use the current edition as the actuarial tables are updated each time. Absolutely essential if you're as serious about audio as I am. Gratuitous link to system to show how serious I am so you know this advice is legit: https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/8367 |
- 94 posts total