When do you know when you're done?


Recently I decided that I was done working on my audio system. It's a great place to be, no longer obsessing over audio trivia, instead replaced by immersing myself in music I love, as well as getting exposed to new music. I took a pretty serious stab at assembling my system, and it required 3 years to get to this point. The time I used to spend researching components, wires, drivers, turntable set-up, etc, is now free to use learning about music, composers, performers, and history. My interest in audio gear will never go away completely. But instead of listening to "How" the system sounds, the experience is now more about the original event - quality of performance, phrasing, expression, intent of the musician, etc.

I was wondering if others have arrived at this point, after pouring a lot of effort into their systems. How did you know you were finished?

Scott
skushino
When I go to CES, or another audiophile's home, and I don't hear anything that makes me want to check my bank balance.
So far, so good!
I don't believe you are ever "done", only "happy for now" exists in my life. My system has remained relatively unchanged for over a year and I believe I could be happy for at least another year, but eventually, I'll want to try something new. I'm happy here because I have tried at least one level "up" from each component/cable in my system and I didn't experience an appreciable improvement in quality of sound. So, one step down is where I have found my happiness, this is how I know I'm "happy for now".