What's going on with the audio market?


Recent retail sales reports are very bad and I am hearing that sales for audio equipment have been nonexistent over the past few months.  I also see more dealers putting items up for sale here and on other outlets.  Even items that have traditionally sold quickly here are expiring without being sold. 

To what would you attribute the slowdown?  Have you changed your buying habits for audio equipment and, if so, why? 
theothergreg
65,40,?

Audio equipment is about the only thing that I feel good about buying.  It's much more important than things that one must buy, like roofs and lawn mowers.  Those things are painful to buy when I could get a new piece of gear.
Hmmm lets see..........

46, 30, ?
I love the system I have now but still tinker and if I can improve it for a not crazy amount of $$ I will. And it's basically my only real indulgence so I don't feel guilty about it at all.

63, 20, ∞

IMO abnerjack said it best. Obviously, we must address the household needs but, my discretionary income goes to music and equipment (if I feel the need).
57,20,?
I had to abandon my hifi addiction when I turned 30 or so, and was stereo-less until last year. It was fun getting back to speed.
I think my days of chasing the 'perfect system' have passed, but when I see a good deal and there's money in the bank, I sometimes weaken...

As far as the audio market dying, I think it is something on a larger scale.
I own my own Garden Design business. 
This year has to be one of the worst for me. Everyone wants what I offer, they just don't want to pay for it.