I tried very hard to assemble a system that would knock my socks off for about $10,000. I failed, the final total is a little over $25,000 but my socks are still off. LOL
@@thelonewolf666 Listen you don't need to spend that much on a funeral either. You know Steve is getting older and older and one of these days ... Herb might take over. Yep he's there just in case.
I agree. I think a "good" system can be had for $10K, but the socks won't come off for something higher, minimum $25K and more like $50K, really, on average. For me $150K - $200K is where a lot of the magic happens.
Is that necessary, Are you getting pricier hifi or replacing it with just another brand out of boredom. It would be nice to know the reasoning behind your quick turnover of hifi. Maybe just because you can & what sort of quality is the brand do you buy.
@@ENGLISHISBESTexpensive price tag doesn't always equate to good sound , there is vintage equipment that sells high but doesn't sound as good as newer less expensive options . But it's also a personal thing .
I don't think it's about the money, it's more about reaching a point where you finally don't want to change anything and feel that you got there for a reasonable price. Value for dollars spent varies greatly from ear to ear. The satisfaction calling a system done is priceless. Getting there for what you feel is a bargain is the cherry on top regardless of how long it took or dollars spent.
This is from a 64 year old Black man O.G music lover and audiophile. It was a endgame for me once I got tube midrange and treble with transistors on bass and panels mated too subwoofers.I feel I have all bases covered and been satisfied for almost two decades with my current system.I did recently upgrade to a pre-owned Sota Sapphire and a Grado Opus3 cartridge. However some components of my system are still being produced and present versions of them would cost me a combined extra of $6,500 to 8,000 today!
There are definitely diminishing returns when buying systems. But more important than money is getting components that play well together. I’ve seen $30k + systems that were terrible due to mismatches, and $2k systems that were really pleasant.
Great observation. Also Highway 61 revisited behind that, my dad bought all his early Bob Dylan albums in New York in the 60’s, we still have them. When CD’s came in my friends thought I was weird because I preferred the sound and musicality of records even when scratched.
I have spent ten of thousands over the years, more like 6 figures... And where did I end up? It all started with a used pair of Zu Omen DW speakers, found locally for $1000... They sounded meh with my current system, so seeing folks on YT state the Zu's play extremely well with vintage gear, mainly Sansui gear, I found a cleaned up 1969 Sansui 2000 receiver locally, for $200 and my world was turned upside down. I pretty much sold all of the modern gear in the house. All the Denafrips, the Parasound, kept a PS Audio unit, and added a Mofi TT... Pennies in the big scheme of things. These old Sansui units just do something to me that none of the modern gear could ever do.
I’ve had good results buying used and saving 50% or more from new. I also enjoy having three systems which allow choices to better match the given music and size of room.
Great vintage finds in thrift stores if u r lucky. Dealer demos w warranty also great value. Canuck Audio Mart sellers and products have never disappointed me.
@rogercoates2492 I agree! And funny, that just last night I had a friend over and we were both listening to tunes but, did so with my "B" system because it's in the room with the pool table. My good system's in the listening room. I told my buddy, 'I really didn't need to upgrade' (from the B system). But I have no buyers remorse because I can now listen to the same music on either system and the B system has qualities/differences about its sound reproduction that make my/our music enjoyable regardless of each respective kit's strengths/weaknesses.
Rega P6, Cyrus cd player, Primaluna Evo 300 integrated amp and Harbeth P3esr speakers. Russ Andrews mains conditioner and cables. Sometimes I think I've spent far too much on my system maybe should have spent money on other things. But as soon as I switch on and start to play music it sounds so good I don't regret it at all. Money well spent.
Had a budget of max $2000 per component which made me buy a used pair of 2008 Harbeth C7ES-3 with stands for $1700, a pair of Van Damme blue speaker cables for $50, a brand new Quad Artera set of Pre and Stereo power for $2400, a CEC CD5 cd player from 2018 for $1400, a brand new demo Teac TN-5BB top model turntable with no plastic and an auto-lift SAEC arm for $1650, a new pick-up and headshell from Audio Technica AT VM740ML and ATLH13 for $450 (total $2100), a Denon AHD7200 headphone bought used for $500. The rest is an older Yamaha K-560 tape deck and its GE-5 equalizer and streaming goes through an Onkyo NS-6130 that I got for $250. All cables are bought brand new from swedish Supra cables. Not gonna change anything ever! Might just add a Sonos Port to access their convenient app (that can play BBC radio stations and Apple Music)
I got my pioneer rx-3600 for 75, a fluance rt82 for 300, Polk tsi 300 for Christmas gift like 10 years ago, a old Sony super acoustic woofer the family has had since the mid 90s and 45 bucks for my stereo cabnet, and 60 for my 5 disc Yamaha cd player. Love my system for my small ish room. I finally got my system setup for imaging and spaciousness. I love my system even though it’s entry lvl but way better than my all in one Panasonic bookshelf hifi system from the early 200s
The one thing I have learned is money has little to do with quality of sound: I have spent outrageous amounts of $$$ on audio systems, but I also get a kick out of putting together fabulous sounding budget systems... I own 8 systems ranging in price from $750. to $50K. One of my favorite integrated amps is a SMSL A300-- $250. I also own Accuphase amps at $8K
The point about difference, and how we so frequently confuse it for 'better', is certainly something that is learned with experience--and it applies to more than hi-fi too. There is also something to be said for cultivating satisfaction with what one has. Maybe we can afford that new DAC or amp or whatever, but maybe we'd be happier if, like Bach, we learned to simply say 'es ist genug'. (I write this having bought three pairs of headphones in the last week: another life lesson, we are all hypocrites, to a lesser or greater extent.)
My return to listening to music after many years has been delightful. Sources are PC and a firestick (tv) attached to the monitor. $200 topping amp, $130Jamo S803's $130 Isoacoustic stands, throw in some cables and you have about $500. Too little? Probably, but it might just be the best start for "new sensations". I had a nice little Luxman/Snell combo in the early 90's and I have to say what you get for the money these days is just incredible.
i think your point is commonly ignored, and that's weird, because it's undeniable: the 'entry level' is a higher-quality proposition than at any point before now
I've been happy with my music system for over 25 years, especially my Maggie 3.6 R's. No need to change them even though I've changed my preamp(s) and added a DAC/Streamer and Power Regenerator, upgraded interconnects, speaker cables, power cords, about five Synergistic Research fuses, Audioquest Vodka ethernet cables and a whole bunch of other tweaks. My speakers, Sub, amp and turntable/arm/cartridge still remain after between 15-40 years.
A hi fi system is a true audiophiles world, we love upgrading & showing off our systems to our friends & family, for me I'm always looking for improvements, I never stop, great video as usual steve👍
Youngbloods Ride the Wind! I have a Reissue, 180-gram vinyl! It's one of my reference records! Incredible recording session translates in the analog to lathe pressing perfectly! But I've been a Jesse Colin Young fan since the '70's! In fact I just [PRE-ORDER] Song for Juli (50th Anniversary) SIGNED! 180g reissue. Shipping later next month! My Maggies are waiting! While we were both hippies in the '60's, my partner was not familiar with the Youngbloods! It was only after she met me and I got that reissue a few years ago! Now it's one of her top picks!
Nicely done Steve. I appreciate you sharing your vast and valuable knowledge of home audio. As this is a crazy stupid subjective hobby so being into stereo all is vastly more emotionally charged than buying a set of tires, thus all the controversy. Steve , you are the master of helping us listen to “ reason” when considering new or different gear! Keep doing your great works of keeping my focus to continue the “chase” REASONABLY. Great video! Thank you very much!
My system: maggie .7, schiit freya s, schiit vidar, onkyo cd7030 silver into schhit modi multibit, h/k st7 with adc xlm cart. About $650 worth of ac and interconnects and power bar. Listen almost every day and love it. Small room with no room attenuation. Thanks Steve.
Friends seemed surprised at what I paid for my system so I would remind them of their boat, ATV, snowmobile, etc, which was always more costly than my hobby. Ah, perspective.
Steve… I spent 25,000 in 1999 … Dynaudio c5.. California audio labs.. audible illusions… Magnan wires.. Spectron class D amp… it was light years better than Krell and Wilson combo to me..
Not sure, but I think overall I spend little but still achieved a sound that I am very happy with. I bought beside speakers all other parts secondhand and own now 3 systems I couldn't be more satisfied with. Yes, there are better systems, no doubt, but I love what I hear from what I have 😊
Dear Steve, really like your way of a humble approach talking about audio, philosophical might be the right word some times? Anyhow, hope you and Herb do some more shows to really inspire the audiophiles in the making :)
A great topic to cover in this video, Steve. And thank you. I've been into audio equipment for the best part of 30 years and have made too many impulse purchases thinking they would make my main system sound better - I had no idea how to blend and match systems for a very long time. If I was honest I think I have probably spent in the region of 20k over this time - a lot of it I do regret for the sheer losses I have suffered :-( I now own 5 systems that range from the 70's/80's/90's/2000's rather than focusing on one system that does it all (as you advise this can cost tens of thousands to achieve). I find there is something in the equipment of the decade that maybe suits the music of the time and can add something different to music of today. It is a real hassle to switch systems around in the limited space I have, but I find it keeps this hobby interesting and nostalgic for me.
I just discovered the vintage gear, even though I am older than the two Sansui receivers I own, a 1969 Sansui 2000 and their 1970 4000 stereo receiver units. I picked up both in working condition, for $200 ea. I bought them to try with a pair of used Zu Omen Dirty Weekends I picked up locally for $1000 and found audio Nirvana for roughly $1300... Oh the money I have pissed away over the years on this hobby to only end up here. Can't make this stuff up, and I could not agree with you more! Spot on sir.
Being an Acid Head from the 60's and 70's I listened to Jethro Tull, Janis Jopin, Led Zepplin, Black Sabbath, Edgar and Johnny Winter, Emerson Lake, and Palmer and the list goes on. I wasnt a hippy like you Steve or my sister. I liked CCR and Neil Young but when I got older I turned to Jazz. Good Video.😂
Great advice Steve. There are too many that think, and strongly advise, others to stop listening to the music they love and start enjoying only the highest level dsd and limited and rare vinyl pressings - of course upgrading every single piece regularly for the rest of your life. Even if the artists are either ho-hum, or ones that repulse your very being.
Many people don’t have the insight and the wisdom about what Audio is really all about, like people like Steve do. One can only hope that they learn from videos like this. Unfortunately, too many don’t have the experience to know that Steve’s right about what he generalizes about different cost systems, types of music, room sizes, SPL levels, setups, etc. But a lot of the people (the ones I call “the idiots”) run around online insisting on their bs when they don’t know even what they’re talking about, many times not even savvy enough to know better, which is really is a travesty of sorts. Edit was typos.
All you need is a master or ones series for professional sound reproduction and control of glm software in your own home, and a little investment in acoustics, and you're already at the top of the highest level in sound reproduction. The high end market is an eternal quagmire for ravens. Many people follow the same tracks to endless unhappiness. Life is about choices and many disappointments for very, very many people in this hi-fi industry.
@@oliivioljy9700 That’s a fairly grim viewpoint. I’ve been in “the music” hobby for years, as a multi-instrumentalist and a general hi-fi enthusiast. If listening to audio and having a working understanding of various equipment is truly a “hobby,” there was tremendous opportunity to learn and experience all that “sound” had to offer even before the availability of “digital” equipment and techniques, and an “analog” sense is a fundamental precursor to understanding all of it. An “interested” listener can go a long way to educate themselves, as “hobbies” usually go. I realize that this “hobby” can be extremely technical, even reaching into the bowels of psychoacoustics, but that doesn’t absolve interested parties from the responsibility of learning, to at least garner a fundamental knowledge of the various disciplines involved. In other words, without going deep into the woods of it all, and just generalizing, a more well-rounded understanding of most, if not all subjects, should invariably lead one to greater overall satisfaction.
I know I'm late to this party, but I just want to share that I've put together a system I'm pretty happy with; it's like 85% to perfect. It might be 8K to 9K usd total value cost, or maybe a little bit more, which is a more affordable hifi system in my estimation. I haven't added anything new in about 18 months, and I think I'm almost satisfied with it. I'd really like to get a Marantz model 7 preamp and fill it with E80CCs, but I'm gonna need a bonus or some kind of injection of surprise-money in order to swing one of those any time soon. I'm a school teacher, music lover, and modest-tinkerer. I love this channel.
4:00 I feel like this one is very important for some of us who don't have the luxury of trying many different speakers. If you find something you like and play all types of music, big win.
Good video and “sound” advice. My room is 24x27’ and I play loud and all types of music. My system is $30,000 for two channel based around JBL 4367 with subs and I am happy with it.
Too funny, I was actually playing along with the the “brothers and sisters” album yesterday on my bass and thinking about Berry and Lamar and the good all days.😉
Tommy Guerro was a pro skater who skated for the legendary Bones Brigade and had skate decks by Powell Peralta. Wasn’t aware of his music though, but will definitely check it out. Thanks, Steve.
Tommy Guerrero is a legend, one of the founding fathers of street skating, killer musician, owns Real skateboards and spitfire wheels and stuff..,guy couldn’t be any cooler… was even in police academy 3 😂
Great video Steve, on a topic that interests many of us. I am fortunate to have multiple systems in my house. Some of the gear has been a bit expensive, but much of it has been sourced from estate sales/thrift stores/Craigslist at VERY reasonable prices. Here's an example of a recently put together bedroom system (small room, about 10 x 12): AMP Reisong A10 $400 new CD transport Sony DVP-S7700 $30 used DAC Schiit Modi $90 new Turntable Sansui SR 717 $200 used Speakers Klipsch RB-5 $40 used For less than $800, this was a killer little system! Probably would not have worked in a large room, but in this smaller room... absolutely superb, no excuse, really good sound. Audiophile grade? Maybe not. But unbelievable sound for the money!
Was quite pleased about your estimate of ~$5000. Put together an office system by 1st getting vintage speakers and a subwoofer kit, then an appropriate integrated amp w/ CD transport, and finally a quality turntable and RIAA pre-amp. The breakdown was 15%, 30%, and 55% for a total of $5250. Spending half on the analog source was worth it :)
Nice! I'm curious about your turntable and cartridge choice. In my 'mid-fi' system I spent 52% on my speakers, 32% on my amplifier - but, my amp included a notedly good quality phono stage! Then 13% on TT and Ortofon Blue, lastly, 8% ($430) on my CD player. Cheap guy that I am, I dropped $200 on speaker cable and one interconnect upgrade.
I just watched someone go through his collection of new components - perhaps well over $100k and behaving as if this 'quality' will last a lifetime and become heritage pieces. All is temporary and fails - so spend on what pleases your ears, and give even more as it pleases your heart!
Be happy to spend how much or how little you like BUT it must end soon so as to enjoy the music. My ceiling is around $35-40k. No matter how much money i have.
My system would disappoint most people that would consider themselves audiophiles. But I tell you what, I thoroughly enjoy it! If my system can sound better, I guess I don’t care to find out! I really enjoy what I have!
Pioneer plx1000, art DJ pre II, orotphon 2m blue, kali audio lp6, Klipsch 12” subwoofer, Behringer mixer, Sennheiser HD599 I listen to all genres except country and rap
Recommendation for you that may be well outside of your comfort zone...but man thats a great place to be! Tool's entire live Salival dvd! Pushit is the shining star from this album hands down!!! The cover of No Quarter as well as You Lie are no slouches imo.
Thank you for these advices, Steve. They are very valuable to me. I like your reviews and videos and learned a lot from them. That helps me a lot, sir, I am grateful for that. Keep on doing your good work. Thanks again and greetings from Germany. 😊👌
Steve, based on being an audio equipment/ music lover for 50 + years, I feel you are 100% correct in your assessment of what equipment/ speakers & approximate price are needed for room size and musical taste. IMO, we truly live in a great time for equipment/ speakers that "can/ will" truly satisfy anyone's budget (from $1K to $25K+++++)!!!!!!!!!!!
I look at trying new things - for eg. Class A amp , R2R DAC , concentric spkrs , Tube SET , DDC , …. some accessories like IsoA , silver spkr wires , balanced connects etc. so far it’s been positive.
".....'Class A' amp?...." Well Class A amplifiers traditionally used different speakers than Class AB, B etc. They had a low damping factor and needed a stiff cone surround in the speaker but they had a whole different lightweight motor and an Al-Ni-Co magnet. Silver speaker wires back in those days were very heavy but you know today ... they're silver plated ofc. Now OFC ... well ... modern 'Class A' is quite powerful, 160 watts MING DA but they're very pricey and they use totally crazy priced stuff.
@@keplermission Aside from the high cost of Class A amps, they are basically room heaters, so if you live in a warm climate, your AC is going to be running a lot more often. Therefore the background noise of the AC running might negate any advantage of Class A, unless one spends a fortune on an AC unit and AC ducts that make no noise.
@@keplermission The fact is I’m living in China , so Chinese brands are around 25% cheaper n imported brands are 30% more , so it’s a no brainer to go for brands like Denafrips , Willsenton etc. I must say the Chinese have improved quite significantly.
Awesome to hear you got into Nirvana through the Unplugged concert. I love how much Kurt's voice changed, coming from a punk rock devil-may-care sound to a more subdued, thoughtful, folky/bluesy sound in unplugged with the accentuating yodels and beautiful rasp to his voice. The selection of songs is so tasteful as well....those Bowie and Leadbelly covers, ah, amazing. Cheers Steve, love your videos :)
The other human who can brilliantly go back and forth between the acoustic and electric world: Richard Thompson. In my opinion, no one has ever done it as well.
Watched this when it first came out and decided to comment after seeing it a few more times. I have a system I absolutely love and it is made of things I came across used and new that I am in love with. Bought Zu Omen Def Supreme speakers used, an RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE ad/da converter I use as a preamplifier and dac, a Crown XLI 3500 amplifier, two RSL 12S subwoofers that I set up and disappear the fed by an Onkyo DX-C390 6 disc player since I load it and go about my day and come back when done and either restart or load different cd's. I do have a few Sony ES series cd players I use as transports as well. I listen in a large area and am setting up another system for another real large area of mine. I do have Klipsch RP600M and RP600M ii speakers for some smaller rooms when I get them set up as well. Never thought I would like a pro amplifier yet in this set up I love it!
I spent $300 on an Integra DTC 9.8 plus 9k on a McIntosh MC462 and 5k on KEP Reference 207/2. Total 15K I upgraded from $85.00 1989 Onkyo IntegraTX 890 with $600.00 Klipsch RP 600M. Total 700.00 The new system is spectacular, but the one I put togeth under $700 bucks was no slouch..SO you are correct, it can be done relativity inexpensive.
I'm not saying you're right or wrong, but I know from experience that many audiophiles don't factor the preamp in as being as important as the amp and speakers. As long as you didn't mess up and get an amp that doesn't match well with your speakers, the preamp can easily make a bigger difference than the amp. I haven't heard your speakers with your amp, but I would be very surprised if they sounded anything less than great. And probably a lot better. Very smart choice. Am I telling you to buy a new preamp? Absolutely not. Just borrow one from a friend, or if you can't do something like that, call Cable Company and have them send you one for demo. (Cable Company specializes in keeping demo units of everything they sell, and lending them out to potential customers, so you don't mess up and make a costly bad decision.). Anyway, its just a suggestion. Always try before you buy, but my gut tells me you would be verry happy with the upgrade.
steve's right. Most people like to listen to pop music, rock music. Some very expensive equipment is suitable for a symphony. Then it's not for most people. Even though he sold it very expensive and advertised it very well.
McIntosh MA5300 at 100 wpc, built in DAC and Phono - $6,000 (Accuphase E-280 is $8,000. for same features) Technics 1200g Turntable - $4,200. Harbeth C7ES3-XD - $4,800. Total $15,000. or $17,000. with Accuphase.
The question you should ask, is how much do you want to spend on individual components. The Rotel1572 Integrated Amp and the Axiom Audio M80s are going to be my next purchase about 6500. I have a regular home theatre surround sound set up for my gaming PC. and a ton of other stuff, but I want more. I preferred JBL or the old infinity sound from the 70s but sadly those speakers have been gone for many years. Cant go back in time so today I prefer to buy new stuff.😂
Well i have several systems... now its time to filter whats goona stay and sell off the rest to have someone else happy. And be able to enjoy music. Ill add that your 100% right... personal taste and exactly what they want.
after two and a half years of sincerely enjoying it, i understand that i spent too little on my electronics front-end. my speakers are amazing, my subs are amazing. my separates are _good enough for now._ i've got a very ambitious plan for the next couple years. i guess i'll give my original parts to friends of mine
Loving your recommendations as I was born at the end of the 60's and missed a lot of the music you mention. Yes I'm British, No I don't like the Beatles!
Steve I like your basic approach with the price levels; 1.5k, 3k, 6k, 12k, 24k. It makes perfectly sense. To experience a significant jump in quality / performance, you need to double the effort. So, I upgraded 8 years ago to the 20k+ level. I have a large and tall room (5x8m), I listen everything, and I listen loud often (100-110dB). As you say, that’s not cheap to achieve. But I got there. Geithain 901k1 active speakers (16” woofer), Mytek DAC/preAmp, Clearaudio TT, WiiM pro Streamer, Teac CD, Synology NAS. Man this rocks and I’m happy for years already..
@@dannyb5874 it’s just for streaming. I don’t think it brings you to the next level if you spend 10x more. The DAC is the critical element and separate, of course, at an adequate pricing level compared to the rest.
Hi Steve. I enjoyed your ramble. I do think there is a pretty satisfying $10k solution for folks like me who want it all but are still value buyers. I am the guy who loves those premier grand crus but find great pleasure in the $10 range at Costco. I play straight from my laptop (so no extra cost) thought Cambridge Audio Magic ($100) into BlackIce F-35 ($3k) into Volti Audio Razz ($6k$) Zu Undertone ($2.5k) and voila. Okay $12kI! I love Keith Jarrett, Brahms and EDM. I am sure there are some other great systems at this price I am listening to mine with that $10 Kirkland brand!
Great talk again, been without a running system for 2 and half years, bought over 120 audiophile albums, with no way to play them. Have a Modded Rega P3, Nagaoka Mp 110, the Warfedale diamond 11.5's a schiit mani phono preamp, however the Marantz 2245 stop working, took around to a few places, the latest isn't been at a shop for almost 6 months. Looking around the 5K system range..... Thought about the Marantz 40n, the Outlaw receiver, the Leak 230, the latest short lived love affair was with the Musical Fidelity M2si, ... till someone compared it to the Marantz MP8006, now I m back to thinking of the 40n all over again. Can't bear the thought of the Yamaha A-S801, maybe the A-S1200, but I m one of those guys that can't live with a regular brand name in my stereo system, I d have to paint over the company logo, but how could you cover up those ugly rectangular dials on the Yamaha faceplate ? Never liked that look. The hunt continues on .....
German Baker here, now here is a challenge: I have resolving systems but i also listen to tons of tango recordings. What should i do to optimally enjoy these old recordings where the musicians sat together in front of one microphone to record their music onto a record. I don't need analytics, the recording is bad according to current standards, but still..their energym enthousiasm, interacting..
There are musically engaging and satisfying products at all price ranges. Buying hi-fi is much like buying wine. I might even prefer a $20 or $30 bottle of wine to one that costs several hundred dollars.
Great video once again! Actually better with all the suggestions and explanations. Took me a while to realize some gear can be a sideways step and not an actual improvement. Unless one heard many systems it can be a hard choice. Many options and many flavors. Thanks again!
Great rant. My philosophy is to find quality components which individually can play all genres at all volume levels in my small room. And secondly the same applies to cables, power conditioner, isolation. And I achieved all that for $US10,000 with a system based around Marantz PM11S2, Teac NT-503, Audiolab 9000CD, Dynaudio Evoke 10, Puritan 156 conditioner and power cables, Tellurium Q Black cables, Ikea chopping board + Atacama isolation gel equipment platforms.
Great vid! I cannot BELIEVE how closely your $5000 system is in line with my current $5000 system! AND how much your $25k system overlaps with what I want to step up to!!! It is truly uncanny! Thanks for all you do and don't tell my wife about the possible upgrades! :)
Thanks for the music recommendations. I always make note of the works your mention in your equipment reviews. I get a kick when you mention an album you bought decades ago because decades again I bought the same album.
It might be a lot to ask of a speaker system to make every genre of music sound good, but that's exactly what my ADS 1230s have been doing for the last 40 years. That's why I haven't gotten rid of them for something "better." Different? Different to me would be the JBL classic L100. Or the Klipsch Cornwall.
Your list goes from $5000 to $25,000 , that's a huge jump. I think for $8000 you could have a system that does everything. Totally agree with you about the Stones. Twenty year run of excellence, like nobody else. They have a new album that should come out in October!!!
Steve, my journey started on simple systems. Slowly upgrading over time, now completely happy. I’ve spent what I thought would be ok for me, and it worked. My journey started reading you cnet column many many years ago, so I see my decisions as ver well educated. Thanks! I’m happy with: Rega P10 with Apheta 3 Audio Alchemy PPA1 phono stage with PS5 power supply Leben CS600X Volti Razz
I feel your room is a great limiting factor, I have an expensive system in a smallish room and feel I could be just as satisfied with a less expensive system, dont think there is much point is spending too much on speakers if your room is small, good news is I'm planning on moving with a larger listening room
Hi Steve, this video hits the nail on the head for me. Thanks! Just built my electronics (C-22+MC275+LP12) and sometimes I feel like I'm listening to weak AM. I blame it on my Vandees 1B and don't know how to work this out.
My system of cast offs is around five grand. The main system 15 to 20. The main system reminds me of why I keep upgrading It just sounds so much better. Maybe it's the 702 Bowers in the main system. Love those speakers
There are three things going on here to me. 1. The best stereo is possible by listening and growing your knowledge through Steve. 2. 60 years ago I listened to Audio Reviewers for tips on Albums; do the same. 3. Save more money than you plan to spend, and something good is bound to happen :) - m.
I tried very hard to assemble a system that would knock my socks off for about $10,000. I failed, the final total is a little over $25,000 but my socks are still off. LOL
@@thelonewolf666 Listen you don't need to spend that much on a funeral either. You know Steve is getting older and older and one of these days ... Herb might take over. Yep he's there just in case.
@@keplermission what's wrong with you?
Same, things are expensive. About $30k for me.
I agree. I think a "good" system can be had for $10K, but the socks won't come off for something higher, minimum $25K and more like $50K, really, on average. For me $150K - $200K is where a lot of the magic happens.
$25K is where the performance should begin to be extraordinary.
I have been upgrading every year or two for 50 years. Not that anything requires change. I just like changing things up!
Also wife?😂
Is that necessary, Are you getting pricier hifi or replacing it with just another brand out of boredom. It would be nice to know the reasoning behind your quick turnover of hifi. Maybe just because you can & what sort of quality is the brand do you buy.
@@ENGLISHISBESTexpensive price tag doesn't always equate to good sound , there is vintage equipment that sells high but doesn't sound as good as newer less expensive options . But it's also a personal thing .
I think you're an audiophile
I don't think it's about the money, it's more about reaching a point where you finally don't want to change anything and feel that you got there for a reasonable price. Value for dollars spent varies greatly from ear to ear. The satisfaction calling a system done is priceless. Getting there for what you feel is a bargain is the cherry on top regardless of how long it took or dollars spent.
Absolutely
This is from a 64 year old Black man O.G music lover and audiophile. It was a endgame for me once I got tube midrange and treble with transistors on bass and panels mated too subwoofers.I feel I have all bases covered and been satisfied for almost two decades with my current system.I did recently upgrade to a pre-owned Sota Sapphire and a Grado Opus3 cartridge. However some components of my system are still being produced and present versions of them would cost me a combined extra of $6,500 to 8,000 today!
There are definitely diminishing returns when buying systems. But more important than money is getting components that play well together. I’ve seen $30k + systems that were terrible due to mismatches, and $2k systems that were really pleasant.
You know Steve is rich. Got is Pass Lab preamplifier teetering on a speaker in the background as if it's nothing... 😂😂😂😂
Great observation. Also Highway 61 revisited behind that, my dad bought all his early Bob Dylan albums in New York in the 60’s, we still have them. When CD’s came in my friends thought I was weird because I preferred the sound and musicality of records even when scratched.
I have spent ten of thousands over the years, more like 6 figures... And where did I end up? It all started with a used pair of Zu Omen DW speakers, found locally for $1000... They sounded meh with my current system, so seeing folks on YT state the Zu's play extremely well with vintage gear, mainly Sansui gear, I found a cleaned up 1969 Sansui 2000 receiver locally, for $200 and my world was turned upside down. I pretty much sold all of the modern gear in the house. All the Denafrips, the Parasound, kept a PS Audio unit, and added a Mofi TT... Pennies in the big scheme of things. These old Sansui units just do something to me that none of the modern gear could ever do.
I’ve had good results buying used and saving 50% or more from new. I also enjoy having three systems which allow choices to better match the given music and size of room.
Indeed I just bought a factory refurbished unit for 50% off. Love it.
Just like used cars, I should have bought used audio equipment. 😢
Great vintage finds in thrift stores if u r lucky. Dealer demos w warranty also great value. Canuck Audio Mart sellers and products have never disappointed me.
@rogercoates2492 I agree! And funny, that just last night I had a friend over and we were both listening to tunes but, did so with my "B" system because it's in the room with the pool table. My good system's in the listening room. I told my buddy, 'I really didn't need to upgrade' (from the B system). But I have no buyers remorse because I can now listen to the same music on either system and the B system has qualities/differences about its sound reproduction that make my/our music enjoyable regardless of each respective kit's strengths/weaknesses.
Me too. Audio components can last 50 years... sound is nothing but, the displacement of air molecules.
Rega P6, Cyrus cd player, Primaluna Evo 300 integrated amp and Harbeth P3esr speakers. Russ Andrews mains conditioner and cables. Sometimes I think I've spent far too much on my system maybe should have spent money on other things. But as soon as I switch on and start to play music it sounds so good I don't regret it at all. Money well spent.
Got a p6 with exact 2 recently and it is a quality unit.
Love CYRUS. I have the CD i with the PSX-R2 as well. I love it. ❤
Had a budget of max $2000 per component which made me buy a used pair of 2008 Harbeth C7ES-3 with stands for $1700, a pair of Van Damme blue speaker cables for $50, a brand new Quad Artera set of Pre and Stereo power for $2400, a CEC CD5 cd player from 2018 for $1400, a brand new demo Teac TN-5BB top model turntable with no plastic and an auto-lift SAEC arm for $1650, a new pick-up and headshell from Audio Technica AT VM740ML and ATLH13 for $450 (total $2100), a Denon AHD7200 headphone bought used for $500. The rest is an older Yamaha K-560 tape deck and its GE-5 equalizer and streaming goes through an Onkyo NS-6130 that I got for $250. All cables are bought brand new from swedish Supra cables. Not gonna change anything ever! Might just add a Sonos Port to access their convenient app (that can play BBC radio stations and Apple Music)
I got my pioneer rx-3600 for 75, a fluance rt82 for 300, Polk tsi 300 for Christmas gift like 10 years ago, a old Sony super acoustic woofer the family has had since the mid 90s and 45 bucks for my stereo cabnet, and 60 for my 5 disc Yamaha cd player. Love my system for my small ish room. I finally got my system setup for imaging and spaciousness. I love my system even though it’s entry lvl but way better than my all in one Panasonic bookshelf hifi system from the early 200s
Basically just get what ya can afford and want and with proper setup and patience you can get good sound
The one thing I have learned is money has little to do with quality of sound:
I have spent outrageous amounts of $$$ on audio systems, but I also get a kick out of putting together fabulous sounding budget systems... I own 8 systems ranging in price from $750. to $50K.
One of my favorite integrated amps is a SMSL A300-- $250. I also own Accuphase amps at $8K
The point about difference, and how we so frequently confuse it for 'better', is certainly something that is learned with experience--and it applies to more than hi-fi too. There is also something to be said for cultivating satisfaction with what one has. Maybe we can afford that new DAC or amp or whatever, but maybe we'd be happier if, like Bach, we learned to simply say 'es ist genug'. (I write this having bought three pairs of headphones in the last week: another life lesson, we are all hypocrites, to a lesser or greater extent.)
That stood out to me also. Different is fun, but not necessarily better than what I had.
I think in the journey of sound / music it is about learning what Flavour your sound is .
Make your own mistakes. Don't let someone else make them for you.
Getting advice before spending a lot of money is not a bad idea, assuming you can find someone who knows what they are talking about.
BINGO, let the UA-cam reviewers say their peace and I will learn from my mistakes. Can catchy, Um.
Get into diy, changing capacitors, op-amps, rectifiers, diodes, Fuses & wiring, once you start, you will never go back, great video as usual steve👍
BUT Building Speakers has a BIG CAVEAT: PROTECT YOUR EARS FROM THE SAW NOISE!😮
My return to listening to music after many years has been delightful. Sources are PC and a firestick (tv) attached to the monitor. $200 topping amp, $130Jamo S803's $130 Isoacoustic stands, throw in some cables and you have about $500. Too little? Probably, but it might just be the best start for "new sensations". I had a nice little Luxman/Snell combo in the early 90's and I have to say what you get for the money these days is just incredible.
i think your point is commonly ignored, and that's weird, because it's undeniable:
the 'entry level' is a higher-quality proposition than at any point before now
Great job on your subject matter “insight” for Part 1 Steve👍.
Spot on!
I've been happy with my music system for over 25 years, especially my Maggie 3.6 R's. No need to change them even though I've changed my preamp(s) and added a DAC/Streamer and Power Regenerator, upgraded interconnects, speaker cables, power cords, about five Synergistic Research fuses, Audioquest Vodka ethernet cables and a whole bunch of other tweaks. My speakers, Sub, amp and turntable/arm/cartridge still remain after between 15-40 years.
A hi fi system is a true audiophiles world, we love upgrading & showing off our systems to our friends & family, for me I'm always looking for improvements, I never stop, great video as usual steve👍
Youngbloods Ride the Wind! I have a Reissue, 180-gram vinyl! It's one of my reference records! Incredible recording session translates in the analog to lathe pressing perfectly! But I've been a Jesse Colin Young fan since the '70's! In fact I just [PRE-ORDER] Song for Juli (50th Anniversary) SIGNED! 180g reissue. Shipping later next month! My Maggies are waiting!
While we were both hippies in the '60's, my partner was not familiar with the Youngbloods! It was only after she met me and I got that reissue a few years ago! Now it's one of her top picks!
Nicely done Steve. I appreciate you sharing your vast and valuable knowledge of home audio. As this is a crazy stupid subjective hobby so being into stereo all is vastly more emotionally charged than buying a set of tires, thus all the controversy. Steve , you are the master of helping us listen to “ reason” when considering new or different gear! Keep doing your great works of keeping my focus to continue the “chase” REASONABLY. Great video! Thank you very much!
LOL I like your analogy, although I know many folks who care about both their stereo system and their cars (hence tires).
Steve, I really enjoyed you talking about the records that shaped your life please keep that coming!
Same here in playing far more Stones than Beatles and my albums collection reflects that by far.
This is a new great segment, keep it up!
I have a pair of Klipsch RP 600Ms, Sprout100 and a Denon DVD-1920 CD/SACD player. The total adds up to about 2K and I couldn't be happier.
My system: maggie .7, schiit freya s, schiit vidar, onkyo cd7030 silver into schhit modi multibit, h/k st7 with adc xlm cart. About $650 worth of ac and interconnects and power bar. Listen almost every day and love it. Small room with no room attenuation. Thanks Steve.
Thanks for recommending The Youngbloods album, I’d never heard of them before. Sounds lovely!
Excellent episode. Thank you for the music recommendations. 👍
Friends seemed surprised at what I paid for my system so I would remind them of their boat, ATV, snowmobile, etc, which was always more costly than my hobby. Ah, perspective.
Steve… I spent 25,000 in 1999 … Dynaudio c5.. California audio labs.. audible illusions… Magnan wires.. Spectron class D amp… it was light years better than Krell and Wilson combo to me..
Back about 1998 I listened to the Dynaudio Evidence for a couple of hours. Incredible. The C5 probably sounds almost as good in a smaller room.
Not sure, but I think overall I spend little but still achieved a sound that I am very happy with.
I bought beside speakers all other parts secondhand and own now 3 systems I couldn't be more satisfied with.
Yes, there are better systems, no doubt, but I love what I hear from what I have 😊
Dear Steve, really like your way of a humble approach talking about audio, philosophical might be the right word some times? Anyhow, hope you and Herb do some more shows to really inspire the audiophiles in the making :)
A great topic to cover in this video, Steve. And thank you. I've been into audio equipment for the best part of 30 years and have made too many impulse purchases thinking they would make my main system sound better - I had no idea how to blend and match systems for a very long time. If I was honest I think I have probably spent in the region of 20k over this time - a lot of it I do regret for the sheer losses I have suffered :-( I now own 5 systems that range from the 70's/80's/90's/2000's rather than focusing on one system that does it all (as you advise this can cost tens of thousands to achieve). I find there is something in the equipment of the decade that maybe suits the music of the time and can add something different to music of today. It is a real hassle to switch systems around in the limited space I have, but I find it keeps this hobby interesting and nostalgic for me.
I just discovered the vintage gear, even though I am older than the two Sansui receivers I own, a 1969 Sansui 2000 and their 1970 4000 stereo receiver units. I picked up both in working condition, for $200 ea. I bought them to try with a pair of used Zu Omen Dirty Weekends I picked up locally for $1000 and found audio Nirvana for roughly $1300... Oh the money I have pissed away over the years on this hobby to only end up here. Can't make this stuff up, and I could not agree with you more! Spot on sir.
Nice one Steve……love all your articulation , your amazing about getting your point across and understood …. Your a star ⭐️🤩
Being an Acid Head from the 60's and 70's I listened to Jethro Tull, Janis Jopin, Led Zepplin, Black Sabbath, Edgar and Johnny Winter, Emerson Lake, and Palmer and the list goes on. I wasnt a hippy like you Steve or my sister. I liked CCR and Neil Young but when I got older I turned to Jazz. Good Video.😂
Great advice Steve. There are too many that think, and strongly advise, others to stop listening to the music they love and start enjoying only the highest level dsd and limited and rare vinyl pressings - of course upgrading every single piece regularly for the rest of your life. Even if the artists are either ho-hum, or ones that repulse your very being.
Many people don’t have the insight and the wisdom about what Audio is really all about, like people like Steve do. One can only hope that they learn from videos like this. Unfortunately, too many don’t have the experience to know that Steve’s right about what he generalizes about different cost systems, types of music, room sizes, SPL levels, setups, etc. But a lot of the people (the ones I call “the idiots”) run around online insisting on their bs when they don’t know even what they’re talking about, many times not even savvy enough to know better, which is really is a travesty of sorts.
Edit was typos.
All you need is a master or ones series for professional sound reproduction and control of glm software in your own home, and a little investment in acoustics, and you're already at the top of the highest level in sound reproduction.
The high end market is an eternal quagmire for ravens. Many people follow the same tracks to endless unhappiness.
Life is about choices and many disappointments for very, very many people in this hi-fi industry.
@@oliivioljy9700 That’s a fairly grim viewpoint.
I’ve been in “the music” hobby for years, as a multi-instrumentalist and a general hi-fi enthusiast.
If listening to audio and having a working understanding of various equipment is truly a “hobby,” there was tremendous opportunity to learn and experience all that “sound” had to offer even before the availability of “digital” equipment and techniques, and an “analog” sense is a fundamental precursor to understanding all of it. An “interested” listener can go a long way to educate themselves, as “hobbies” usually go. I realize that this “hobby” can be extremely technical, even reaching into the bowels of psychoacoustics, but that doesn’t absolve interested parties from the responsibility of learning, to at least garner a fundamental knowledge of the various disciplines involved. In other words, without going deep into the woods of it all, and just generalizing, a
more well-rounded understanding of most, if not all subjects, should invariably lead one to greater overall satisfaction.
I know I'm late to this party, but I just want to share that I've put together a system I'm pretty happy with; it's like 85% to perfect. It might be 8K to 9K usd total value cost, or maybe a little bit more, which is a more affordable hifi system in my estimation. I haven't added anything new in about 18 months, and I think I'm almost satisfied with it. I'd really like to get a Marantz model 7 preamp and fill it with E80CCs, but I'm gonna need a bonus or some kind of injection of surprise-money in order to swing one of those any time soon. I'm a school teacher, music lover, and modest-tinkerer. I love this channel.
Hi Steve! I love your taste in music n' think you should do more music/album recommendations. Greatings from Mexico!
Great video, minor point: Tommy didn't just come up as a skateboarder, he is a full on LEGEND of street skating.
4:00 I feel like this one is very important for some of us who don't have the luxury of trying many different speakers. If you find something you like and play all types of music, big win.
Thanks Greg! Free advertising.
Well how about that? A reply from Good Ol' Deputy Dawg himself (aka the Audiophiliac).
Good video and “sound” advice. My room is 24x27’ and I play loud and all types of music. My system is $30,000 for two channel based around JBL 4367 with subs and I am happy with it.
Steve’s a “Ramblin’ Man” today. Now I can’t get that tune out of my head. 😂
Too funny, I was actually playing along with the the “brothers and sisters” album yesterday on my bass and thinking about Berry and Lamar and the good all days.😉
Tommy Guerro was a pro skater who skated for the legendary Bones Brigade and had skate decks by Powell Peralta. Wasn’t aware of his music though, but will definitely check it out. Thanks, Steve.
Tommy Guerrero is a legend, one of the founding fathers of street skating, killer musician, owns Real skateboards and spitfire wheels and stuff..,guy couldn’t be any cooler… was even in police academy 3 😂
Great video Steve, on a topic that interests many of us. I am fortunate to have multiple systems in my house. Some of the gear has been a bit expensive, but much of it has been sourced from estate sales/thrift stores/Craigslist at VERY reasonable prices.
Here's an example of a recently put together bedroom system (small room, about 10 x 12):
AMP Reisong A10 $400 new
CD transport Sony DVP-S7700 $30 used
DAC Schiit Modi $90 new
Turntable Sansui SR 717 $200 used
Speakers Klipsch RB-5 $40 used
For less than $800, this was a killer little system! Probably would not have worked in a large room, but in this smaller room... absolutely superb, no excuse, really good sound. Audiophile grade? Maybe not. But unbelievable sound for the money!
Was quite pleased about your estimate of ~$5000. Put together an office system by 1st getting vintage speakers and a subwoofer kit, then an appropriate integrated amp w/ CD transport, and finally a quality turntable and RIAA pre-amp. The breakdown was 15%, 30%, and 55% for a total of $5250. Spending half on the analog source was worth it :)
Nice! I'm curious about your turntable and cartridge choice. In my 'mid-fi' system I spent 52% on my speakers, 32% on my amplifier - but, my amp included a notedly good quality phono stage! Then 13% on TT and Ortofon Blue, lastly, 8% ($430) on my CD player. Cheap guy that I am, I dropped $200 on speaker cable and one interconnect upgrade.
For the most part I'm in the Linn camp. Source first.
Great, informative video Steve. Also thanks for taking a risk and temporarily placing the HPA-1 in shaky position for our visual pleasure. 😅
I just watched someone go through his collection of new components - perhaps well over $100k and behaving as if this 'quality' will last a lifetime and become heritage pieces. All is temporary and fails - so spend on what pleases your ears, and give even more as it pleases your heart!
Be happy to spend how much or how little you like BUT it must end soon so as to enjoy the music. My ceiling is around $35-40k. No matter how much money i have.
My system would disappoint most people that would consider themselves audiophiles. But I tell you what, I thoroughly enjoy it! If my system can sound better, I guess I don’t care to find out! I really enjoy what I have!
Pioneer plx1000, art DJ pre II, orotphon 2m blue, kali audio lp6, Klipsch 12” subwoofer, Behringer mixer, Sennheiser HD599
I listen to all genres except country and rap
I've found my systems's journey very enjoyable.
Recommendation for you that may be well outside of your comfort zone...but man thats a great place to be! Tool's entire live Salival dvd! Pushit is the shining star from this album hands down!!! The cover of No Quarter as well as You Lie are no slouches imo.
Thank you for these advices, Steve. They are very valuable to me. I like your reviews and videos and learned a lot from them. That helps me a lot, sir, I am grateful for that. Keep on doing your good work. Thanks again and greetings from Germany. 😊👌
More music recs!! Love seeing what you love spinning
Listen at 110 db! Husband to Wife: Ay, what did you say? I can't hear you!
Steve, based on being an audio equipment/ music lover for 50 + years, I feel you are 100% correct in your assessment of what equipment/ speakers & approximate price are needed for room size and musical taste. IMO, we truly live in a great time for equipment/ speakers that "can/ will" truly satisfy anyone's budget (from $1K to $25K+++++)!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks to you I' ve learn that maxim 1500 USD u can have an Hi FI audio system
I look at trying new things - for eg. Class A amp , R2R DAC , concentric spkrs , Tube SET , DDC , …. some accessories like IsoA , silver spkr wires , balanced connects etc. so far it’s been positive.
".....'Class A' amp?...." Well Class A amplifiers traditionally used different speakers than Class AB, B etc. They had a low damping factor and needed a stiff cone surround in the speaker but they had a whole different lightweight motor and an Al-Ni-Co magnet. Silver speaker wires back in those days were very heavy but you know today ... they're silver plated ofc. Now OFC ... well ... modern 'Class A' is quite powerful, 160 watts MING DA but they're very pricey and they use totally crazy priced stuff.
@@keplermission Aside from the high cost of Class A amps, they are basically room heaters, so if you live in a warm climate, your AC is going to be running a lot more often. Therefore the background noise of the AC running might negate any advantage of Class A, unless one spends a fortune on an AC unit and AC ducts that make no noise.
@@keplermission I have a Willsenton R800i 50W with my Kef LS50 meta , it’s fine in my smallish listening room but don’t expect above 90dB vol.
@@keplermission The fact is I’m living in China , so Chinese brands are around 25% cheaper n imported brands are 30% more , so it’s a no brainer to go for brands like Denafrips , Willsenton etc. I must say the Chinese have improved quite significantly.
I can’t do Hi-Fi without Chi-Fi.
Awesome to hear you got into Nirvana through the Unplugged concert. I love how much Kurt's voice changed, coming from a punk rock devil-may-care sound to a more subdued, thoughtful, folky/bluesy sound in unplugged with the accentuating yodels and beautiful rasp to his voice. The selection of songs is so tasteful as well....those Bowie and Leadbelly covers, ah, amazing. Cheers Steve, love your videos :)
Thanks!!
The other human who can brilliantly go back and forth between the acoustic and electric world: Richard Thompson. In my opinion, no one has ever done it as well.
Thanks so much for the recommendations! Looking forward to digging in.
Watched this when it first came out and decided to comment after seeing it a few more times. I have a system I absolutely love and it is made of things I came across used and new that I am in love with. Bought Zu Omen Def Supreme speakers used, an RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE ad/da converter I use as a preamplifier and dac, a Crown XLI 3500 amplifier, two RSL 12S subwoofers that I set up and disappear the fed by an Onkyo DX-C390 6 disc player since I load it and go about my day and come back when done and either restart or load different cd's. I do have a few Sony ES series cd players I use as transports as well. I listen in a large area and am setting up another system for another real large area of mine. I do have Klipsch RP600M and RP600M ii speakers for some smaller rooms when I get them set up as well. Never thought I would like a pro amplifier yet in this set up I love it!
I spent $300 on an Integra DTC 9.8 plus 9k on a McIntosh MC462 and 5k on KEP Reference 207/2. Total 15K
I upgraded from $85.00 1989 Onkyo IntegraTX 890 with $600.00 Klipsch RP 600M. Total 700.00
The new system is spectacular, but the one I put togeth under $700 bucks was no slouch..SO you are correct, it can be done relativity inexpensive.
I'm not saying you're right or wrong, but I know from experience that many audiophiles don't factor the preamp in as being as important as the amp and speakers. As long as you didn't mess up and get an amp that doesn't match well with your speakers, the preamp can easily make a bigger difference than the amp. I haven't heard your speakers with your amp, but I would be very surprised if they sounded anything less than great. And probably a lot better. Very smart choice.
Am I telling you to buy a new preamp? Absolutely not. Just borrow one from a friend, or if you can't do something like that, call Cable Company and have them send you one for demo. (Cable Company specializes in keeping demo units of everything they sell, and lending them out to potential customers, so you don't mess up and make a costly bad decision.). Anyway, its just a suggestion. Always try before you buy, but my gut tells me you would be verry happy with the upgrade.
steve's right. Most people like to listen to pop music, rock music. Some very expensive equipment is suitable for a symphony. Then it's not for most people. Even though he sold it very expensive and advertised it very well.
McIntosh MA5300 at 100 wpc, built in DAC and Phono - $6,000 (Accuphase E-280 is $8,000. for same features)
Technics 1200g Turntable - $4,200.
Harbeth C7ES3-XD - $4,800.
Total $15,000. or $17,000. with Accuphase.
The question you should ask, is how much do you want to spend on individual components. The Rotel1572 Integrated Amp and the Axiom Audio M80s are going to be my next purchase about 6500. I have a regular home theatre surround sound set up for my gaming PC. and a ton of other stuff, but I want more. I preferred JBL or the old infinity sound from the 70s but sadly those speakers have been gone for many years. Cant go back in time so today I prefer to buy new stuff.😂
Well i have several systems... now its time to filter whats goona stay and sell off the rest to have someone else happy. And be able to enjoy music. Ill add that your 100% right... personal taste and exactly what they want.
Interesting system recommendations, starting from the speakers, of course. 🙂
after two and a half years of sincerely enjoying it, i understand that i spent too little on my electronics front-end.
my speakers are amazing, my subs are amazing. my separates are _good enough for now._
i've got a very ambitious plan for the next couple years.
i guess i'll give my original parts to friends of mine
Loving your recommendations as I was born at the end of the 60's and missed a lot of the music you mention. Yes I'm British, No I don't like the Beatles!
Steve I like your basic approach with the price levels; 1.5k, 3k, 6k, 12k, 24k. It makes perfectly sense. To experience a significant jump in quality / performance, you need to double the effort.
So, I upgraded 8 years ago to the 20k+ level. I have a large and tall room (5x8m), I listen everything, and I listen loud often (100-110dB). As you say, that’s not cheap to achieve. But I got there. Geithain 901k1 active speakers (16” woofer), Mytek DAC/preAmp, Clearaudio TT, WiiM pro Streamer, Teac CD, Synology NAS.
Man this rocks and I’m happy for years already..
20k system and you have a 130 dollar streamer? :) most of the budget went to TT and speakers?
@@dannyb5874 it’s just for streaming. I don’t think it brings you to the next level if you spend 10x more. The DAC is the critical element and separate, of course, at an adequate pricing level compared to the rest.
Thank you for tell us what music you like. I am a fan of Supertramp and America, just to share with you.
Hi Steve. I enjoyed your ramble. I do think there is a pretty satisfying $10k solution for folks like me who want it all but are still value buyers. I am the guy who loves those premier grand crus but find great pleasure in the $10 range at Costco. I play straight from my laptop (so no extra cost) thought Cambridge Audio Magic ($100) into BlackIce F-35 ($3k) into Volti Audio Razz ($6k$) Zu Undertone ($2.5k) and voila. Okay $12kI! I love Keith Jarrett, Brahms and EDM. I am sure there are some other great systems at this price I am listening to mine with that $10 Kirkland brand!
Great talk again, been without a running system for 2 and half years, bought over 120 audiophile albums, with no way to play them. Have a Modded Rega P3, Nagaoka Mp 110, the Warfedale diamond 11.5's a schiit mani phono preamp, however the Marantz 2245 stop working, took around to a few places, the latest isn't been at a shop for almost 6 months. Looking around the 5K system range..... Thought about the Marantz 40n, the Outlaw receiver, the Leak 230, the latest short lived love affair was with the Musical Fidelity M2si, ... till someone compared it to the Marantz MP8006, now I m back to thinking of the 40n all over again. Can't bear the thought of the Yamaha A-S801, maybe the A-S1200, but I m one of those guys that can't live with a regular brand name in my stereo system, I d have to paint over the company logo, but how could you cover up those ugly rectangular dials on the Yamaha faceplate ? Never liked that look. The hunt continues on .....
German Baker here, now here is a challenge: I have resolving systems but i also listen to tons of tango recordings. What should i do to optimally enjoy these old recordings where the musicians sat together in front of one microphone to record their music onto a record. I don't need analytics, the recording is bad according to current standards, but still..their energym enthousiasm, interacting..
I love your opinion pieces more than anything else you do. More please.
Yes please ... more vids like this one!
I use different cable risers for different types of music. Cable risers are the most important part of my journey. Cable risers are my passion.
You must be P.T. Barnum best friend.
There are musically engaging and satisfying products at all price ranges. Buying hi-fi is much like buying wine. I might even prefer a $20 or $30 bottle of wine to one that costs several hundred dollars.
Wonderful topics Steve.Especially enjoy the music suggestions that you’re including within the content. ✌️
As always interesting experience as well as thoughts. Well done Steve.
Great video once again! Actually better with all the suggestions and explanations. Took me a while to realize some gear can be a sideways step and not an actual improvement. Unless one heard many systems it can be a hard choice. Many options and many flavors. Thanks again!
Great rant. My philosophy is to find quality components which individually can play all genres at all volume levels in my small room. And secondly the same applies to cables, power conditioner, isolation. And I achieved all that for $US10,000 with a system based around Marantz PM11S2, Teac NT-503, Audiolab 9000CD, Dynaudio Evoke 10, Puritan 156 conditioner and power cables, Tellurium Q Black cables, Ikea chopping board + Atacama isolation gel equipment platforms.
Great vid!
I cannot BELIEVE how closely your $5000 system is in line with my current $5000 system! AND how much your $25k system overlaps with what I want to step up to!!! It is truly uncanny!
Thanks for all you do and don't tell my wife about the possible upgrades! :)
Nice!
Oh my god..... I just experimented moving my speakers.... the improvement!!!
🙌
Nirvana! I wasn't expecting that. Bob Dylan, probably, but not Nirvana or maybe one day Sixto Rodriguez.
Thanks for the music recommendations. I always make note of the works your mention in your equipment reviews. I get a kick when you mention an album you bought decades ago because decades again I bought the same album.
It might be a lot to ask of a speaker system to make every genre of music sound good, but that's exactly what my ADS 1230s have been doing for the last 40 years. That's why I haven't gotten rid of them for something "better." Different? Different to me would be the JBL classic L100. Or the Klipsch Cornwall.
Perhaps along with the system of the day there could also be an Album of the day…
I think the Entire system, including wires should be Under $3k.
You can get some amazing sound for that price.
Your list goes from $5000 to $25,000 , that's a huge jump. I think for $8000 you could have a system that does everything. Totally agree with you about the Stones. Twenty year run of excellence, like nobody else. They have a new album that should come out in October!!!
This is the most sensible thing I ever heard in the HIFI world.
Steve, my journey started on simple systems. Slowly upgrading over time, now completely happy. I’ve spent what I thought would be ok for me, and it worked. My journey started reading you cnet column many many years ago, so I see my decisions as ver well educated. Thanks!
I’m happy with:
Rega P10 with Apheta 3
Audio Alchemy PPA1 phono stage with PS5 power supply
Leben CS600X
Volti Razz
Buy great speakers first. Then a great phono cartridge. The stuff in-between can be upgraded gradually.
I have spent toooo much $1,000s trying various gear. I finally found the right amp, preamp, dac, cd, tape separates. Now I need a end game speaker!
What is your speaker budget, existing amp, and room size?
I feel your room is a great limiting factor, I have an expensive system in a smallish room and feel I could be just as satisfied with a less expensive system, dont think there is much point is spending too much on speakers if your room is small, good news is I'm planning on moving with a larger listening room
Hi Steve this is a really excellent video in terms of advice etc. Very well done.
I have my system, I watch videos. I’m more interested in what YOU listen to. Which recordings does Steve listen to? Then I can enjoy them. 😊
Hi Steve, this video hits the nail on the head for me. Thanks! Just built my electronics (C-22+MC275+LP12) and sometimes I feel like I'm listening to weak AM. I blame it on my Vandees 1B and don't know how to work this out.
How much have you played around with speaker placement? Can really make a huge difference.
Nirvana Unplugged is a great-sounding CD.
My system of cast offs is around five grand. The main system 15 to 20. The main system reminds me of why I keep upgrading
It just sounds so much better. Maybe it's the 702 Bowers in the main system. Love those speakers
There are three things going on here to me.
1. The best stereo is possible by listening and growing your knowledge through Steve.
2. 60 years ago I listened to Audio Reviewers for tips on Albums; do the same.
3. Save more money than you plan to spend, and something good is bound to happen :) - m.