Most of us live with good enough for the bulk of our lives.
The problem for me is deciding when good enough isn’tgood enough—when I suspect something’s better but don’t really know.
This can lead to an unsettled feeling filled with hand wringing and constant doubt or I can sometimes just take a deep breath and blow it off. But usually not for too long. And that’s when I know it’s time for a change. When that nagging urge keeps coming back to haunt me.
Once the decision’s made I can roll my sleeves up and start the research phase: reading the forums, talking with friends, searching the magazines. It’s kind of fun until I’ve narrowed the choices down. Then it’s time to evaluate.
If we’re talking cables it’s pretty easy and quick. Speakers, not so much.
We once were able to head down to one of several high-end audio dealers in the city and spend the day poking around to make our decision. Now that’s mostly changed. The few local dealers have narrowed their product offerings to practical levels and rarely get in the latest greatest to play with. The online fellows have a broader selection but aren’t always so agreeable to my lust for playing around.
And who can blame them?
There’s no perfect solution I am familiar with other than relying upon trust. If I trust a manufacturer then I am more likely to know what to expect. But trust requires familiarity and longterm connection, something not always practical in a fast-changing technological world.
I am guessing as the age of the neighborhood retailer morphs into the digital connection era, scratching the “I am interested in change” itch will get easier once we’re through the current stalemate.
I can’t wait.
Paul McGowan / PS AUDIO
