How does one get off the merry-go-round?

Thankfully, I did not get off. In the last year, conservatively I would say that the realism of my music reproduction has improved by 50 percent. I would credit the breakin of my Weiss Dac202, the new technology in the StillPoints Ultras, John Tucker's new Exemplar Portal cables, the Bergman Sindre tt and Ortofon A-90 cartridge, fullest use of the Syn. Res. ARTs, and the new H-Cat X9 circuit in the amp, phono stage, and line stage. What a year!

In summary, sometimes you feel like a nut & sometimes you don't. Please don't say I can no longer be taken seriously.

When you no longer see the brass ring.

Looking at it now, I don't think it is your choice to make. When you have the audionervoso, it is a great rush while it last. I think it's not until things come up in life that THROW you off the merry-go-round that you actually get off.

Two simple rules ...
1. Stop ALL reading of audio gear. No more audio mags or audio internet. Switch to 0% reading and 100% listening. You still wish to read something related to audio? Then stick only to music threads - no gear threads - just music.
2. Never sit to listen critically to others' systems. Sure, go visit and have fun. But don't bring any of your recordings nor play any of the host's which you also have. Therefore, no comparisons will be made, whether conscious or subconscious. And while listening to their system, concentrate on enjoying the music, not the sound.

I am very happy with my set up. BUT, I just read a thread which makes me suspect that my speakers and amps should not match up well. Is it true? Maybe, maybe not. But it got me worrying even though my system sounds great to my ears! Dang it!