[maxwalrath]

I agree with just about everything you've said, it just that for a lot of people there's no way to audition products. There's A LOT less audio stores and audiophiles outside of NYC. Add to that I can't afford retail (I'm only two years out of school). For a lot of people, if something is on an audition list it's something they would buy when it comes up used for a fair price on A'gon, compare it to the unit they've been using, and sell the loser. Most people I've met operate this way, and very few have had the chance to audition a component before buying it.

[EDS_]

max,

Sure it's a lecture, but I think it's a worthwhile one .  A lot of people make purchases based on recommendations never having listened to a single component.  How do they know it's right for them if they've never compared it?  Instead, people like to talk about how their amp is claimed to be better than some amp thousands of dollars more and feel good they saved money - they're just fooling themselves.  "Well somebody said this amp beat out a $20,000 amp, that must mean it's a great deal for sure ...

Excellent post. And the logic is flawless.
One additional point is the "My new XYZ just blows me away" mindset.
1. Give it a little time.
2. Myriad people seem to love every item they buy. This makes their words less useful.
3. As said above--sort-of, just becasue item A works well in a system somewhere does not mean you will like it.

[rkapadia@ROOP]

Ears,

I'm not trying to impart any amazing insight.  I'm just reinforcing  a philosophy I think works towards matching an enjoyable system.  As you say you audition countless components, my comment really doesn't apply to you.  I only wish more people did this sort of thing.

max,

I'm not denying the value of audiogon, or saying anyone shouldn't get a good deal.  I guess it depends how you value your time, and if the time and money spent trying to try and flip units will cost you more than auditioning units with a money back guarantee.  Sometimes a great deal in the end isn't such a good value considering all the time spent searching, shopping, swapping and listening.  Time is worth something as well.

EDS,

It's always nice to have a little bit of agreement - makes me know I'm not losing it just yet .

Regards,

[HiRes_PR]

Just wanted to add this to your consideration, gentlemen.  It's something Audioholics.com found on the Denon DVD5900.

http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/avhardware/DenonDVD-5900ContrastBug.html