Words From the Wise

I - Join Audiogon and use it to research.

II - Set your opening budgets in moderation.

III - Buy a lot of music you really like as this music is ultimately the system fuel.

IV - Pace your-self with care do not become obsessive.I have known many who spend too much and lose interest.

V - Start with simplicity,basic system short runs solid
foundations and choice location.

That may be more than five...

I've been doing this for twenty-five years. Here's what I've determined:

1. Speakers are most important.

2. Then comes source.

3. Amps are amps, they effect sound but NOWHERE near the level of #1 or #2. If a new amp changes sound dramatically, something is wrong with one of the amps.

4. If you're serious about sound, spend most of your money only on speakers, source and then amp [in that order].

5. Line conditioners are snake oil. Power cords are as well. Speaker cables give little bang for the buck, stick with Radio Shack wire.

BONUS ADVICE: Anyone who has spent money on line conditioners, power cords and expensive speaker cables will defend it to the death. Don't waste time talking sense or science to them. Let them be delusional and happy.

EXTRA BONUS ADVICE: If it's a cool gadget, I mean a really cool gadget and you gotta have it forget #4 and have fun.

Virgil,

I'm mostly in agreement w/ you esp. w.r.t to your "BONUS ADVICE"!!

However, I feel that you missed 1 very imp. "component" - the listening room! So, to add to your list:-

0. the listening room is even more important. Good & correct treatment of it will allow you to maximize what you presently have.

Bombaywalla- I think you are right on target; poor accoustics [listening room] can break an otherwise excellent speaker. Match the speaker to the venue for best results.

1. RUN FAR AND FAST AWAY FROM HERE BEFORE YOU GO CRAZY AND BROKE. (probably to late)

2. Set a realistic budget.

3. Learn to listen, and listen to as many system's as possible.

4. Re-adjust your budget.

5. Forgive yourself the endulgance, it's too late, so enjoy the sweet music!

6. (bonus) Beat the kids BEFORE they touch the system.