Equipment Recommendations - The Home For New System and Upgrade Advice

SnowmaNick said:
Gorgeous table.
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It really is. Wish they weren't $7.5k here.

Noticed today that the listings say there are demo units of the Valore and Pianosa that one can follow the link to inquire about. Last August they were selling demo units of the Pianosa for something near $2k USD, though I don't remember the exact price. But if the Pianosa can be had for around that price, that's quite a table for the money. Perhaps worth delaying having both systems operational to snag, @SMeekWoodworks. Something to consider, anyway.
 
So how did most of you learn about the details of audio gear? Way back when, there were stores where you could look and listen to equipment, but that world seems gone except possibly in some larger cities. Given the wide array of options available today, what would you recommend to someone starting out new to help them learn more about audio, to include cables, turntables, receivers, amps, speakers, etc., while not knowing the "inside baseball" language you've accumulated over time?
 
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Biscuit said:
So how did most of you learn about the details of audio gear? Way back when, there were stores where you could look and listen to equipment, but that world seems gone except possibly in some larger cities. Given the wide array of options available today, what would you recommend to someone starting out new to help them learn more about audio, to include cables, turntables, receivers, amps, speakers, etc., while not knowing the "inside baseball" language you've aaccumulated over time?
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This is a great question. I was basically in that situation like 10-ish years ago and honestly as simple as it may sound I think the best way is to participate in forums like this or to try and find other people in the hobby wherever you can and just talk to them. I've learned so much from people on here that I most likely never would have otherwise (and regularly still do!). I think the key is to just not be afraid to ask. Sometimes this hobby can be intimidating, but everyone has to start somewhere.
 
The internet is huge. Finding other local audiophiles is even more helpful. If you can ever attend an audio show, it’s an amazing crash course in wider experiences.

At the end of the day, it kind of just comes down to talking to people (including online like we are now) and listening to gear whenever possible.
 
Biscuit said:
So how did most of you learn about the details of audio gear? Way back when, there were stores where you could look and listen to equipment, but that world seems gone except possibly in some larger cities. Given the wide array of options available today, what would you recommend to someone starting out new to help them learn more about audio, to include cables, turntables, receivers, amps, speakers, etc., while not knowing the "inside baseball" language you've aaccumulated over time?
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I’ve been into music and stereos since I was a kid. I remember building a speaker kit I saved up for (lawn mowing for money, the good old days) and ordered out of the classifieds in Stereo Review in elementary school. My step dad also had a nice system and taught me some stuff. Then I worked while in college at an audio store. But most of all, talking to others who knew (know) way more than me. I’m a member of an audio club in my area, and they hold get togethers once a month, great opportunity to listen to others systems and pick their brains about why they chose what they did, and how/what they’ve learned along the way. Beyond that, there are some really friendly people on this site (and others) that have a ton of experience and knowledge. Also, audio shows (RIP RMAF), magazines, books on theory (Floyd Toole is a really good starting place). And finally, the sometimes expensive part, just trying things myself.
 
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Anyone know of anything happening with the JBL L100 MKII stock? I know they have not been out that long (didn't they launch in 2024?). I see a lot of stock issues with only the blue/orange grilles available or just the orange. I'm not looking to buy anything, just a curiosity I noticed.

Here's a funny one: MD has the orange grille at regular price of 2,400/each but blue on sale for 1,800/each (and no black listed anymore). So, for a pair you'd save 1,200. If you wanted the orange (or black), you'd be better off buying the blues and purchasing the replacement grilles for about 360 and then still have a saving of nearly 1K and two sets of grilles.
 
Panera Ciabatta Diapers said:
Anyone know of anything happening with the JBL L100 MKII stock? I know they have not been out that long (didn't they launch in 2024?). I see a lot of stock issues with only the blue/orange grilles available or just the orange. I'm not looking to buy anything, just a curiosity I noticed.

Here's a funny one: MD has the orange grille at regular price of 2,400/each but blue on sale for 1,800/each (and no black listed anymore). So, for a pair you'd save 1,200. If you wanted the orange (or black), you'd be better off buying the blues and purchasing the replacement grilles for about 360 and then still have a saving of nearly 1K and two sets of grilles.
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Buy both grilles. Everyone needs both grilles.
 
Jbraswell said:
Excessive or holding back?
www.ebay.com

Audio Research Ref 750SE Reference Monoblock Power Amplifier - PAIR - Excellent | eBay

Audio Research Ref 750SE Amplifier - Pair. REFERENCE 750: (8 matched pairs) KT120 power output, (1) 6550WE regulator, (1) 6H30 regulator amplifier, (1 matched pair) KT120 driver, (1) 6H30 follower. REFERENCE 750 SE: (8 matched pairs) KT150 power output, (1) 6550WE regulator, (1) 6H30 regulator...
www.ebay.com
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Every time I see those units I'm torn between "awesome" and "filling cabinet".
 
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