Elizabeth , this might sound silly but i’m also retired and have had the time to research and buy all new equipment for the first time since the late seventies. The researching itself I find very engaging.
While awaiting my new Magico A3’s speakers to arrive my new stuff is sitting in boxes or half unpacked (Luxman 507uX II integrated amp, VPI Classic II SE turntable, Ortofon 2M black mm cartridge and a newish Marantz SA8005CD player I actually have been using). I’m enjoying just seeing all this fine equipment in the house and anticipating how well it will sound. I’ve only dreamed of having this kind and quality of equipment before.
I’m also enjoying communicating with you nice people here on Audiogon, while I research and get advice on the next purchase. Currently that’s cables and interconnects. The anticipation of completing this system is almost as much fun as actually listening to music on it will be. It’s kind of like the night before Christmas for kids.
I’m fortunate enough to have built a house in the county far enough away from neighbors so I can play music as loudly or softly as I wish. That’s really a blessing and part of the motivation to live here. So I’m sorry your neighbors rain on your parade a bit. Of course there’s a lot to be said for city living too, which I’m acutely aware of when I need to travel six to ten hours for a demo or purchase.
Sorry I didn’t catch your thread a few weeks ago. Take care now,
Mike