This seems like a good place to start. When you are deciding on a new CD player, amp, speakers, etc., how do you decide what to listen to first? Of course, the final decision will be made after listening, but there can be so many choices, especially in the <2K range. For example, how much emphasis do you put on:

1 Reviews
2 Recomendations (forums, etc.)
3 Specifications
4 Same brand as amp, turntable,... (do components of the same brand generally "work better" together, is it easier to get them to work well together?)
5 Upgradeability

Thanks all,
Chris

I just watched the PS Audio's "From Coal to Coltrane" DVD and it got me wondering: Why are Stereophile editors on a manufacturer's promotional DVD? What is up with that? This is not an educational DVD, this is promotional material and Paul McGowan makes no bones about it. I can't fathom how there could be an even more blatant conflict of interest except perhaps MF soliciting hi-fi manufacturers to advertise on his web site. I'm truly appalled.

Hi Everyone!! this is the first time I post here, but have been following the forums for quite sometime now. I have learned a lot from old posts making a lot easier making decisions when buying gear!! I have just ordered a pair of B&W 703 and am about to order from a different dealer cables as well. However, since I don't live in the US, it can become very expensive If I order something wrong. I live in Brazil.

Hi everyone.
Please help.
I have recently acquired a TEAC A-2050 tape player.
From what I know, its a pretty standard, consumer level, 1/4" tape recorder.
I have a stash of Ampex 406 Audio Mastering Tapes which I attempted to use in this player.
When record enabled, the audio path and VU meters lead me to believe I am recording. However, when I playback what I tried to record, I hear it VERY faintly.
First of all, am I using the right kind of tape?
Can anybody shed some light on tape types and formats?
Thanks,
C

Welcome to The Entry Level, and welcome to the weird and wonderful world of hi-end audio. This hobby can be overwhelming and intimidating, we know, but the joy it creates should far exceed and outshine any potential frustration.

One of the many special characteristics common to music lovers and audiophiles and, of course, music lovers who are audiophiles (but we

Or where do you get your bricks from, slave sonics or what? http://www.optonline.net/Finance/AP/Article?articleId=291175&categoryId=18