High End Audio-Gaining Higher Ground?


This is a spin off from a meeting held by audio designers where the primary discussion was about high-end audio and how to get the younger generation interested & involved in high-end audio. One of the speakers mentioned that his son was not the least bit interested in his rig and if something was to happen to him, his son stated it all would be put up for sale on Ebay.

I thought it would be interesting to put this discussion forth to this audio community and to get opinions on the above subject. Are audiophiles a dying breed and what could rekindle this hobby for all new generations.
phd
Mapman what a great idea to start a charity funded by rich audiophiles. How many audiophiles (attorneys, doctors) have gone out and purchased a very expensive system as a status symbol, a trophy as to impress the world they have the means and way to buy what some of us could only dream of, only to let it go because they didn't have the time or interest to listen to such a system. I think I have more respect for an audiophile that has invested the money methodically, piece by piece over a period of time to reach their goal. We shall make you the secretary of treasurer to oversee this charity.
That's really cool, Jafox. But how many of these people in their 20s and 30s are just looking at the equipment instead of buying? That's the $64000 question!
Since this audio game is on it's last leg and is going to wind up crashing like Radio Shack. Why don't we all just sell our gear and donate it to a charity. Maybe it will give Audiophiles a better name. And then let the young people be the next generation with their headphones and computers.
Dave_72: You could ask the same question of all the old codgers who no longer have the high income they so much enjoyed for decades.
True, there's tire kickers of all ages really. But, I am still curious to know if the 20 and 30 somethings are actually buying the equipment, or are just aspiring to. If they're not, that doesn't help the industry too much. Another argument is, just by looking at the you tube posts on videos regarding high end, is that most of the younger crowd doesn't seem to be interested in the concept of audiophilia. Matter of fact, they tend to go with the flat earth "all amps sound the same" objectivists. Which is really sad. Sure, there is imo, a lot of snake oil in this hobby, but there are actual licensed pro engineers that are designing and making high end components. To discredit all of high end as hogwash is really selling yourself short. I know I'm preaching to the choir here, but that's what I see around me. Just my $0.02.