How is Mid Fi defined?


I've noted on several threads that there are references to Mid Fi vs. Hi Fi, but I doubt there is much agreement on what qualifies a system as Mid Fi vs. Hi Fi.

To keep this fun, let's phrase it this way:

You might own a Mid Fi system if...
mceljo
"Why do you have the need to define your gear in some nebulous ranking system?" - Tvad

I honestly don't care where my equipment ranks in the Low/Mid/Hi Fi world, I'm happy with it. Being an engineer I like to understand/explain things using concrete examples because it increases the chances of people understanding the point. While I know that this is a nebulous subject with no real answer, it's interesting to see how different peoples ideas about Hi Fi work when applied. Having read several references to Mid Fi it seems reasonable to have a general understanding of what that might mean.

I'm likely Mid Fi simply by the way I purchased my equipment. I visited the store to "kill some time" and ended up being impressed with the sound of some bookshelf speakers. I listened to several speakers in that store, but really never looked anywhere else before making my final choice. My reasoning was that I couldn't imagine being happier with another speakers looks or sound so why waste the time listening to very different systems in very different rooms to try and compare apples and oranges.

I listened to speakers ranging in cost from $650 a pair to $180,000 a pair and several level in between. I knew I was happy with the ones I purchased when I could listen to the most expensive speakers and not feel like mine sounded "bad" in comparison. After visiting the store I would avoid listening to my previous speakers for a few days to let the comparison ability to wear off. Now I can visit the store and listen to the high end and come home still being happy.
If you payed way too much for the sound you are getting, congratulations- you have genuine hifi!

08-26-10: Mceljo
Being an engineer I like to understand/explain things using concrete examples...
That answers it. Thanks.
Tvad - It sounds like you've met an engineer before! We tend to approach things a little differently than the rest of the world.
My father is an engineer. Exactly why I'm not, but may still eventually be. I like a certain mystery to life and the things that surround me. Otherwise everything is just too predictable and boring. And you know what? I can't imagine being much happier with my stereo than I am now.

And if one of the above comments regarding how many buttons and switches you have on your equipment is a good level to judge by then I'm most certainly hi-fi. Not only do I have one piece with a power switch in the back but overall I only have seven switches and buttons dealing with mute, select, volume, and power between three pieces of gear. I MUST be hi-fi! ;-) Not bad for almost $7k now. (retail, of course. I'm not stupid) Or am I? Maybe a little. LOL!