Validation

@lloydc

I can’t understand half the words either...  But then, I don’t speak Spanish! 

Actually, the vocal track is recorded way down on that and it is very hard just to hear what is being said, let alone understand it.  If you get the system right, you can understand what is being said, but it is difficult in a live room and certainly easier in nearfield.

I assume you are talking ~27:20.

https://youtu.be/FUazy5wSpaU

As for validation, it is exceedingly rare for someone to come over to listen.  However, they’ve always been amazed and compared it to "six figure sound" even when still in "development."  Of course as a hobby, things are always in development.

On line validation is nice, especially when it is from those that also have nice sounding systems to demo.  But it is not necessary, and I know where my system stands from attending shows. 

Someone mentioned that cost, or lack thereof, seems to spur this sort of thing. When one puts their own components together that can "compete" and saves a ton of coin in the process, they get a sense of pride that you just don't get from walking into the store and putting your money down.  If this is shared, perhaps others will follow suit allowing for better sound for less $$$.  I am always too happy to share what I have and have done.

Someone mentioned that cost, or lack thereof, seems to spur this sort of thing. When one puts their own components together that can "compete" and saves a ton of coin in the process, they get a sense of pride that you just don't get from walking into the store and putting your money down. If this is shared, perhaps others will follow suit allowing for better sound for less $$$. I am always too happy to share what I have and have done.

 Very true. Learning, research, effort deserve respect. Hiring consultants to design you a system, paying a crew to set it up, then plunking yourself down in front of it with a single malt on the rocks and spinning Diana Krall...

Mis dos centavos

Nothing I would like better than having staff from Stereophile Magazine come over for a listen and review the sound of speakers of a listener’s design/build on a shoestring budget that can compete with the big guys.  I know that some of these guys are in the Los Angeles/Orange County area (hint hint).

I have thick skin and a Teflon coat.

I don’t look to others for validation including with my stereo equipment.  I have adjusted my equipment with the TVs so the family is happy with the sound and ease of operation.  

I don't need it but it's fun to watch people's faces, they generally aren't ready for it and are smiling/laughing every time. Never had anyone give me a "meh" afterwards. The best responses were from my kids' friends - seems like everybody owns a little bluetooth speaker for their whole house and that's it!