When you think you

[MartinT]

There are some...

...such as the Helius arm I mentioned.

[kenworthy100]

I have heard numerous systems that are better than mine and conversely a good many that are far worse, some that I just wouldn't be able to live with.

That being said I have reached a point with the couple of rigs I own that I can listen to an array of different musical genres and thoroughly enjoy the results, for me that was my main ambition.

[Marco]

There are some...

...such as the Helius arm I mentioned.

Unmitigated Pishanto?

Marco.

[Jimbo]

I would like to hear some other systems but it is difficult finding anyone else with a system at all in my social group. I am in Birmingham area so if any AOS folk would like a guest listener please post me:eyebrows

[Yomanze]

Unmitigated Pishanto?

Marco.

Some Helius arms did have shaky construction indeed. However the newer ones are leagues ahead.

[Spectral Morn]

I use the opportunity as an open minded learning situation. Listening to different kit in different rooms is always educational.

Often room issues hold systems back, as do poorly matched equipment, however sometimes the sound, while poor and lacking for the visiting listener is exactly what the owner of the system wants, so is it a failure because we don't like it? Not necessarily entirely if it floats the boat of the owner. Sadly suggestions of how to improve things is not always asked for, or indeed welcome if offered. I guess in away systems are like children, the parents are proud, sometimes have selective, or parental blindness and don't want the flaws of their precious one analysed or mentioned.

I have often heard systems that are slightly better, better in some areas not others, and vastly better and sometimes for less money than the net-worth of my system. As I said above I view it as a learning experience and its often fun to try and figure out what's going on, is wrong, from my perspective of course.



Regards Neil

[Barry]

Good post Neil.

I have heard many systems that in some respects are clearly better than mine: usually in bass extension and weight as well as dynamic range. But they are often compromised in other areas that are important to me: clarity and neutrality and focus.

As such, whilst initially impressed when I return to my own system I do not find myself disappointed. I hope this doesn't come across as sounding smug; my system has many faults, but I have learnt to live with its shorcomings for it does do well. And it provides me with enormous pleasure; being in use for several hours a day when I'm at home.