The key is you want something that can be easliy serviced, either by warranty, or pay a normal service provider. So, if it is a mechanical moving component, like CD player, turntable, etc..., you want to make sure parts are available in the future. If it is an amp or preamp, then Class AB or A can easily be serviced by paid service provider. One thing to keep in mind - generally, it is easier to service single component gear rather than integrated gear. For example, some old 1970s japanese receivers are so cramped that it is very costly to service them while old monoblock McIntosh amps can be easily serviced. In addition, some of the new small class D amps may have specific tech parts that will not be replaceable if the small company is not around anyore.
??? Established Manufacturer or Take A Chance ???
With the proliferation of gear makers going belly up I got to thinking about this...
You are getting pretty long in the tooth & have an itch to build what will most likely be the system playing at your wake,hopefully not for another 15 years give or take...
Lets say you already chose your speakers & are now looking to get the amp to drive them..You've done the shortlist,spent some time running around to demo components accessible to you and narrowed your choices down to 3 or 4 pieces...
Here is your conundrum.. 1 or 2 of your choices are made by long established manufacturers & the others are fairly new in the industry,say 2-3 years and priced around 20% less than the well known models...
Remember,EVERYTHING else about them is equal...Do you pony up & buy from the well established makers or do you take a chance on a new to the industry maker & save some coin?Please expound on why you decided the way you did...
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If a brand has some years behind it that is a good thing. The brand may not be known to you, but a track record over time is very beneficial. There are exceptions to the rule, such as when a long-term manufacturer is sold to a new corporation and they implement lots of new procedures, etc. That can be just a problematic and a brand-new company without much of a track record. Having some years to iron out simple unexpected problems is worth a lot considering the nature of audio electronics. |
Some excellent comments so far,much appreciated.... @garebear helps me live rent free in the minds of people like you! |
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