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New Component Upgrade Success Rate

I like to try a new component once in a while when the upgrade bug hits.  Cables, tubes, power cords, power conditioners, headphones, maybe even something major like a preamp or a DAC.  I've noticed my successful adoption rate is pretty low and I usually end up returning the new component.  About one out of every four or five attempts is a success.  I'm batting about .200.   What is your successful adoption rate when you try something new?
mward
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
5,112 posts
 
I new component takes time to get used to its assets and liabilities.  Also to find the right cable, supports, etc.
sgordon1
144 posts
 
Are you paying attention to the small things?
speaker placement, seating position, furniture in the room,
wall and floor challenges?  What about cabling and attention
to vibration control, for each and every piece?

Instead of chasing the holy grail  by changing components,
you might want to focus on getting the most from the
main pieces that you already own.  (This is cheaper and more fun.) Have you read Jim Smith's "Get Better Sound?"
o_holter
541 posts
 
I agree with sgordon1. Smith's book didn't offer miracle advice but it did change my thinking about sound. I don't do many component changes (but sometimes, upgrades) and when I do, I first read everything I can find about it (and listen, if possible). Not just the glowing reviews. So the rate, for me, is probably closer to two out of three succesful.
czarivey
4,494 posts
 
Hey I'm TOTAL loser and still hooked up to my Sunfire 300 amp and Aerial 10T speakers for decades! Simply quit even trying to upgrade these two.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
mesch
1,679 posts
 
 Great response Dave. I believe the best point taken from Jim Smith's book is his advise to consider room treatment and system placement prior to equipment upgrade. 
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