Why must y’all continue to curse me? Now, after 22 years, our kenwood receiver is throwing a fit. Keeps randomly changing listening modes and won’t keep a steady volume. It will once it is set and playing, but if you change channels or whatever, it can decide it feels like a change of pace.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Wow. Even an extended warranty would have only been about 3 years or so? Hope the new Denon 3700H arrives as promised. Lately I've been skeptical at first but then very happy with Amazon deliveries.
I don't buy extended warranties, unless it's really inexpensive (usually isn't). I have an automatic 2-year extension on my credit card. Electronics usually works forever, at least 10 years (my 15 year plasma TV gave up couple of months ago), as long as it survives first year, all the "burn-in" heat cycles, the problem is usually is their rapid obsolescence, not quality issues. If you look all the pictures of these old vintage receivers people posted here - probably still in working condition, but not in use. This one was just a case of bad luck - faulty DSP chip manufacturing from Texas Instruments that became widely recognized for this vintage of Pioneer and Onkyo receivers. They even had a replacement program in place, but discontinued it end of last year, as they run out of parts. It almost would have been better if it went year sooner, but oh, well. Now I'm getting latest and greatest, which will be obsolete in couple of years, as there will undoubtedly be HDMI HDCP 17.5, 15.5.3.1 surround systems, or some other breakthrough-must-have doo-dad added.
Why must y’all continue to curse me? Now, after 22 years, our kenwood receiver is throwing a fit. Keeps randomly changing listening modes and won’t keep a steady volume. It will once it is set and playing, but if you change channels or whatever, it can decide it feels like a change of pace.
Wow, three guys with stereos going bad at the same time? I think the electronics cabal has been monitoring this board and sent out a self destruct signal as soon as you identified yourselves.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
So my Pioneer Receiver is officially dead (to be precise it's the DSP chip that's dead) so I pulled the trigger in 2020 Denon 3700H. It's weird - market is usually flush with these things, but when you go to various websites there is a lot of "out of stock" and as a result not whole lot of discounting for last year or two-year old relevant models (I usually don't mind getting something like open box or clearance model). So if I'm buying full sticker, I may as well get the newest model (it's got a few small tweaks over last year). It also looks it is just about to be released by Denon (they started with highest priced models first, which I think makes sense from market capture point of view), now they're going "mid-high", which this one is. Amazon promises end of this week, other retailers put either out of stock or have 2+ weeks waiting backorder on it. Will see if Amazon was too optimistic or plain deceitful.
I'm also getting new ELAC Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers on top of my floor column speakers for the ceiling bounce effect (in lieu of ceiling mounted speakers), will see if that works as promised.
I'm still bummed by my Pioneer's too short life. Five years was not enough for this price range. Also, its amplifier works, it's just the chip that went bad, but it makes no sense to try to repair it, considering they're out of those chips anyway.
Ditto my Denon, and I only got 4 years at best (probably slightly less if I count weeks/days). Same issue; the amp works with analog sources, it's just the digital/Hdmi board that died. Told "don't have those parts anymore; most likely" by Denon.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
So my Pioneer Receiver is officially dead (to be precise it's the DSP chip that's dead) so I pulled the trigger in 2020 Denon 3700H. It's weird - market is usually flush with these things, but when you go to various websites there is a lot of "out of stock" and as a result not whole lot of discounting for last year or two-year old relevant models (I usually don't mind getting something like open box or clearance model). So if I'm buying full sticker, I may as well get the newest model (it's got a few small tweaks over last year). It also looks it is just about to be released by Denon (they started with highest priced models first, which I think makes sense from market capture point of view), now they're going "mid-high", which this one is. Amazon promises end of this week, other retailers put either out of stock or have 2+ weeks waiting backorder on it. Will see if Amazon was too optimistic or plain deceitful.
I'm also getting new ELAC Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers on top of my floor column speakers for the ceiling bounce effect (in lieu of ceiling mounted speakers), will see if that works as promised.
I'm still bummed by my Pioneer's too short life. Five years was not enough for this price range. Also, its amplifier works, it's just the chip that went bad, but it makes no sense to try to repair it, considering they're out of those chips anyway.
Too bad about the Pio. That's unusual. Pioneer Electronics, especially their Elite line, are very robust. Those ELACs are very sweet, though. My son has a pair of ELAC towers. They are wonderful, especially for the price.
With all the consolidation among the audio electronics manufacturers, especially those in Japan, it seems lots of SKUs are "unavailable". And, I'm betting big box retailers have all suspended ordering, stock levels will be low for a while.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Why must y’all continue to curse me? Now, after 22 years, our kenwood receiver is throwing a fit. Keeps randomly changing listening modes and won’t keep a steady volume. It will once it is set and playing, but if you change channels or whatever, it can decide it feels like a change of pace.
Actually, it's probably fixable. The potentiometer is probably dirty and the switching board sounds like the solder is breaking down. Up to you whether you feel comfortable "tinkering" with it. Then again, it's 22 years old.
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Yeah, the consolidation is such that soon we'll have couple of companies, just like with TVs. Onkyo/ Pioneer were in talks to be acquired by Sound United (Denon, Marantz, Polk, etc.) some time earlier. So far didn't work out, but with Covid, it may accelerate it or finally kill it, nobody really knows. This would pretty much make us at their mercy, as only Yamaha would be left from large suppliers in the US, plus couple of very high-end independents. Sony didn't produce a new receiver in 3 years and I read somewhere they were also eager to sell this business.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into business of established players, which is how "better mouse trap" should work.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Yeah, the consolidation is such that soon we'll have couple of companies, just like with TVs. Onkyo/ Pioneer were in talks to be acquired by Sound United (Denon, Marantz, Polk, etc.) some time earlier. So far didn't work out, but with Covid, it may accelerate it or finally kill it, nobody really knows. This would pretty much make us at their mercy, as only Yamaha would be left from large suppliers in the US, plus couple of very high-end independents. Sony didn't produce a new receiver in 3 years and I read somewhere they were also eager to sell this business.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into established player business.
A LOT OF the electronics merchandise resellers have gone under too, including the online players (anyone remember J&R? I loved the deals I got on jandr.com or J&R.com but perhaps those deals were TOO GOOD; hence, they are no longer.
Out on the West Coast, Tweeter, Circuit City, and "The Good Guys" all bit the dust! Incredible Universe became Fry's, and carries on as one of the sole Best Buy competitors; never liked Best Buy.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Yeah, the consolidation is such that soon we'll have couple of companies, just like with TVs. Onkyo/ Pioneer were in talks to be acquired by Sound United (Denon, Marantz, Polk, etc.) some time earlier. So far didn't work out, but with Covid, it may accelerate it or finally kill it, nobody really knows. This would pretty much make us at their mercy, as only Yamaha would be left from large suppliers in the US, plus couple of very high-end independents. Sony didn't produce a new receiver in 3 years and I read somewhere they were also eager to sell this business.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into established player business.
A LOT OF the electronics merchandise resellers have gone under too, including the online players (anyone remember J&R? I loved the deals I got on jandr.com or J&R.com but perhaps those deals were TOO GOOD; hence, they are no longer.
Out on the West Coast, Tweeter, Circuit City, and "The Good Guys" all bit the dust! Incredible Universe became Fry's, and carries on as one of the sole Best Buy competitors; never liked Best Buy.
Every time I go to SoCal, a friend of mine and I like to visit the local Fry's. It's like Best Buy and Radio Shack got together, given the number of components you can buy separately.
My own opinion:
I think most people today are looking for a more "plug and play" solution, which would explain the popularity of something like Sonos.
Think about the time and effort @graphicguy put into assembling and tuning his friends system - very few people have the patience to go through something like that (or, they call "the guy" to do it for them). Plus, with most everything being wireless now, who wants to connect all those wires and cables?
Will it result in better sound quality? I'm sure the audiophiles here would say yes, enthusiastically. Will 90% of the population know, or care? Probably not.
Sound has been evolving toward convenience for quite a while. I happened to think that .mp3 file format was an an insult to anybody who could hear anything other than noise, but it took over the CDs well before it was actually worth listening after evolving into lossless compression formats like ALAC and FLAC. When those became common and my phone had enough storage to keep my library, I switched then, but not earlier. Now it's the wireless, I think it also evolved to "good enough". I have a pair of bluetooth headphones and they have quite impressive sound, even if that over the jack wire is still slightly better (fuller). The only thing that can be annoying is occasional malfunctions/interference that I experienced in some situations. When traditional players can't see that revolution coming, the startups like Sonos, will eat their lunch.
I still like traditional sound "two-plus" speaker setup and my music center is in the same place as my home cinema, but I can see how somebody else would get a single soundbar plus subwoofer plus if really fancy that some wireless surround sound for their TV and call a day.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Yeah, the consolidation is such that soon we'll have couple of companies, just like with TVs. Onkyo/ Pioneer were in talks to be acquired by Sound United (Denon, Marantz, Polk, etc.) some time earlier. So far didn't work out, but with Covid, it may accelerate it or finally kill it, nobody really knows. This would pretty much make us at their mercy, as only Yamaha would be left from large suppliers in the US, plus couple of very high-end independents. Sony didn't produce a new receiver in 3 years and I read somewhere they were also eager to sell this business.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into established player business.
A LOT OF the electronics merchandise resellers have gone under too, including the online players (anyone remember J&R? I loved the deals I got on jandr.com or J&R.com but perhaps those deals were TOO GOOD; hence, they are no longer.
Out on the West Coast, Tweeter, Circuit City, and "The Good Guys" all bit the dust! Incredible Universe became Fry's, and carries on as one of the sole Best Buy competitors; never liked Best Buy.
I think most people today are looking for a more "plug and play" solution, which would explain the popularity of something like Sonos.
Will it result in better sound quality? I'm sure the audiophiles here would say yes, enthusiastically. Will 90% of the population know, or care? Probably not.
Right on Michaell. It is the same with golf, younger people don't have the time to play (3 - 5 hours), it is too costly, no time to sit around and savor the scenery, can't be used to drum up business and isn't a write off any more. A sound system that has to be wired up and balanced etc.......naw, people today just want to plug an MP3 into a speaker and I have instant music...anywhere, anytime. Like you said, the actual sound is not that important....especially for most of the music these things are used for. Good system could make a difference for classical music or an orchestra, but, do you really need it for today's music? Also, young people don't have the room and don't want to move all that stuff.
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
GG, your little business is doing pretty well in such a short time. You may have to hire some of us one day.
I still like traditional sound "two-plus" speaker setup and my music center is in the same place as my home cinema, but I can see how somebody else would get a single soundbar plus subwoofer plus if really fancy that some wireless surround sound for their TV and call a day.
I've got the soundbar and the subwoofer.
Gave up on the surround sound experience two houses ago.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
Yeah, the consolidation is such that soon we'll have couple of companies, just like with TVs. Onkyo/ Pioneer were in talks to be acquired by Sound United (Denon, Marantz, Polk, etc.) some time earlier. So far didn't work out, but with Covid, it may accelerate it or finally kill it, nobody really knows. This would pretty much make us at their mercy, as only Yamaha would be left from large suppliers in the US, plus couple of very high-end independents. Sony didn't produce a new receiver in 3 years and I read somewhere they were also eager to sell this business.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into established player business.
A LOT OF the electronics merchandise resellers have gone under too, including the online players (anyone remember J&R? I loved the deals I got on jandr.com or J&R.com but perhaps those deals were TOO GOOD; hence, they are no longer.
Out on the West Coast, Tweeter, Circuit City, and "The Good Guys" all bit the dust! Incredible Universe became Fry's, and carries on as one of the sole Best Buy competitors; never liked Best Buy.
I think most people today are looking for a more "plug and play" solution, which would explain the popularity of something like Sonos.
Will it result in better sound quality? I'm sure the audiophiles here would say yes, enthusiastically. Will 90% of the population know, or care? Probably not.
Right on Michaell. It is the same with golf, younger people don't have the time to play (3 - 5 hours), it is too costly, no time to sit around and savor the scenery, can't be used to drum up business and isn't a write off any more. A sound system that has to be wired up and balanced etc.......naw, people today just want to plug an MP3 into a speaker and I have instant music...anywhere, anytime. Like you said, the actual sound is not that important....especially for most of the music these things are used for. Good system could make a difference for classical music or an orchestra, but, do you really need it for today's music? Also, young people don't have the room and don't want to move all that stuff.
@driver100 - I haven't played a round of golf in two years, for exactly the reason you state - the time commitment.
Why must y’all continue to curse me? Now, after 22 years, our kenwood receiver is throwing a fit. Keeps randomly changing listening modes and won’t keep a steady volume. It will once it is set and playing, but if you change channels or whatever, it can decide it feels like a change of pace.
Actually, it's probably fixable. The potentiometer is probably dirty and the switching board sounds like the solder is breaking down. Up to you whether you feel comfortable "tinkering" with it. Then again, it's 22 years old.
would that also make it change modes, though? Meaning, I may have it set to 3-channel stereo, but then all of sudden, I find it in theatre mode, or some such thing. It likes to choose a mode that creates a fake echo. It is really annoying. Never even understood why such a mode exists.
Anyway, as you said, it probably isn't worth messing with unless I'm hellbent on not spending money. I'm now wonder what happened to my old Pioneer. I barely used it. Can't recall if I gave that away or have it in the basement somewhere.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Picked up this little audio gem last night for $180. 100W X 2 into 8 ohms full bandwidth. Bluetooth, USB, turntable connections, etc. All loaded up and made by a highly regarded English audio company.
My 29 year old Rotel RCD-855 CD player was designed in England using a Phillips of the Netherlands TDA1541A-S1 D/A chip and assembled in Hong Kong.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
My son just bought 3 from Jos A Bank. He picked up the last one on Saturday afternoon after dropping some things off to his wife who works somewhat close to the store he uses (Union Center, West Chester).
He is mostly work from home but is involved in some things that require meetings, and he will likely have some travel with meetings again soon.
Brooks Brothers, that reminds me of a funny story. We went to a wedding in St Louis and the brides family provided 3 coach buses for out of town people to travel to and from the Ritz Carlton to the rehearsal party and wedding/reception. In line to get on the bus one time, the driver, a big guy dressed in a suit with a cowboy hat and a deep southern drawl voice stopped a guy who was about to get on the bus. He said "Your jacket isn't sitting right, let me fix it for you." The guy says "Are you sure?" Driver says, "Don't worry this ain't my first rodeo". As the bus driver was adjusting the guy's jacket, the guy says "Ok, but I'm the manager at Brooks Bothers in Manhattan". I didn't really want to walk by the driver to get on the bus after that, but I didn't attract undo attention. Thinking back, it must have been a prank.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I think most people today are looking for a more "plug and play" solution, which would explain the popularity of something like Sonos.
Think about the time and effort @graphicguy put into assembling and tuning his friends system - very few people have the patience to go through something like that (or, they call "the guy" to do it for them). Plus, with most everything being wireless now, who wants to connect all those wires and cables?
Will it result in better sound quality? I'm sure the audiophiles here would say yes, enthusiastically. Will 90% of the population know, or care? Probably not.
I think that an overwhelming majority of the public have no clue about what an accurate music or home theater sounds like. Just give them a wireless speaker with a single 5.25 driver that plays loud and they will be happy as pigs in mud.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Is Graphicguy Transportation hiring?
I'm always looking for an extra gig. Local, too.
Hey, I’ve got dibs on the east coast operation.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I appreciate the stories here about the audio systems.
My ears are aged past being too critical. But I recall my first week at Miami University and the student center had a listening room near the entrance where they played classical music on a system (1966) with Acoustic Research AR3a speakers. I sat and listened to those and was impressed with their true sound. Often after eating in the cafeteria, I'd stop in the room to hear what was playing.
I played clarinet in high school band and I wonder if people who played musical instruments were more attuned to whether the sound from an amplifier and speakers is true to the original performance.
I bought AR3a speakers a few years later when I built my Heathkit. Still have them.
I played clarinet in high school band and I wonder if people who played musical instruments were more attuned to whether the sound from an amplifier and speakers is true to the original performance.
I bought AR3a speakers a few years later when I built my Heathkit. Still have them.
As I said earlier, I listen to friends who actually play in bands and orchestras. If they like how my system sounds I consider my installation to be a success. One day I was playing a George Winston CD and a friend who plays in a classic "Big Band" remarked that when he was standing outside or inside that room it sounded as if there was someone actually playing a grand piano. I thought that was the best complement anyone could pay my system.
Vintage Acoustic Research speakers are still very impressive- a good choice.
One philosophy my father impressed upon me was, "If you can't afford to go First Class, don't go at all." I guess that's why I'm so averse to compromise when It comes to my cars, my tools, or my audio systems.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Is Graphicguy Transportation hiring?
I'm always looking for an extra gig. Local, too.
Hey, I’ve got dibs on the east coast operation.
You and Sandy have pretty good qualifications....I think you have a good chance of signing on.
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
I bought my last suit in 1996 when I started the business...needed a suit so potential customers would think I looked professional and knew what I was doing. Probably haven't worn it for 20 years......doubt if it fits anymore....went from 36 to 34 waist. I do wear a sports jacket and tie, good pants for a funeral....but, these days I see guys in jeans and a T-shirt (not striped necessarily).
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
I played clarinet in high school band and I wonder if people who played musical instruments were more attuned to whether the sound from an amplifier and speakers is true to the original performance.
I bought AR3a speakers a few years later when I built my Heathkit. Still have them.
As I said earlier, I listen to friends who actually play in bands and orchestras. If they like how my system sounds I consider my installation to be a success. One day I was playing a George Winston CD and a friend who plays in a classic "Big Band" remarked that when he was standing outside or inside that room it sounded as if there was someone actually playing a grand piano. I thought that was the best complement anyone could pay my system.
Vintage Acoustic Research speakers are still very impressive- a good choice.
One philosophy my father impressed upon me was, "If you can't afford to go First Class, don't go at all." I guess that's why I'm so averse to compromise when It comes to my cars, my tools, or my audio systems.
Some what similar, dad always said it only costs a little bit more to buy quality and you won’t regret it.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I’d have more faith in his boat building if he knew what a cubit is.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
I have to do another dealer swap for an Acura dealer tomorrow. These are the competitors to the dealership I buy all of my Acuras from. They have furloughed a lot of employees, so they call me when they can't get one of their lot boys to do a swap.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Is Graphicguy Transportation hiring?
I'm always looking for an extra gig. Local, too.
I want the franchise for Canada!
People in hell “want” ice water but they never get it.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I’d have more faith in his boat building if he knew what a cubit is.
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I’d have more faith in his boat building if he knew what a cubit is.
jmonroe
Depends on who you ask. Between 18 and 22 inches more or less.
Are you angling for a spot on the boat? Not sure it that would work as ship’s rules require passengers board two by two and you are a unique individual.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I’d have more faith in his boat building if he knew what a cubit is.
jmonroe
Depends on who you ask. Between 18 and 22 inches more or less.
Are you angling for a spot on the boat? Not sure it that would work as ship’s rules require passengers board two by two and you are a unique individual.
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
The last suit I bought was in 2009 for my father’s funeral. My son borrowed the jacket for some video he was shooting and promptly lost it. Don’t need a suit for any job interview that I would want at this stage of my life.
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
Well, now we know your first name is "Noah." Maybe you can post pictures from the hurricane as it blows through.
I’d have more faith in his boat building if he knew what a cubit is.
jmonroe
Depends on who you ask. Between 18 and 22 inches more or less.
Are you angling for a spot on the boat? Not sure it that would work as ship’s rules require passengers board two by two and you are a unique individual.
I played clarinet in high school band and I wonder if people who played musical instruments were more attuned to whether the sound from an amplifier and speakers is true to the original performance.
I bought AR3a speakers a few years later when I built my Heathkit. Still have them.
As I said earlier, I listen to friends who actually play in bands and orchestras. If they like how my system sounds I consider my installation to be a success. One day I was playing a George Winston CD and a friend who plays in a classic "Big Band" remarked that when he was standing outside or inside that room it sounded as if there was someone actually playing a grand piano. I thought that was the best complement anyone could pay my system.
Vintage Acoustic Research speakers are still very impressive- a good choice.
One philosophy my father impressed upon me was, "If you can't afford to go First Class, don't go at all." I guess that's why I'm so averse to compromise when It comes to my cars, my tools, or my audio systems.
Some what similar, dad always said it only costs a little bit more to buy quality and you won’t regret it.
We bought houses that were over our budget, and I bought new cars I probably shouldn't have bought (used would have been more prudent)...but, I don't regret ever buying them...it all worked out for the best.
Comments
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
With all the consolidation among the audio electronics manufacturers, especially those in Japan, it seems lots of SKUs are "unavailable". And, I'm betting big box retailers have all suspended ordering, stock levels will be low for a while.
Pioneer and Onkyo merged. Klipsch owns Jamo, Mirage, Athena and Energy speaker companies. Denon, in particular, has been scarce. They are also owned by the same company who owns Marantz.
At least they gave me some notice. Will be an early a.m. swap. Should be finished well before lunch. Will drop off an RLX, and bring back an MDX. Interested to see how the RLX drives.
Shows you how difficult consumer electronics really are. There are some upgrade cycles creating big buying rush, but between them it's basically fight for survival. The swings can also come from unexpected directions, when small non-established players come in with some product (like Sonos today) and eat significantly into business of established players, which is how "better mouse trap" should work.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Out on the West Coast, Tweeter, Circuit City, and "The Good Guys" all bit the dust! Incredible Universe became Fry's, and carries on as one of the sole Best Buy competitors; never liked Best Buy.
My own opinion:
I think most people today are looking for a more "plug and play" solution, which would explain the popularity of something like Sonos.
Think about the time and effort @graphicguy put into assembling and tuning his friends system - very few people have the patience to go through something like that (or, they call "the guy" to do it for them). Plus, with most everything being wireless now, who wants to connect all those wires and cables?
Will it result in better sound quality? I'm sure the audiophiles here would say yes, enthusiastically. Will 90% of the population know, or care? Probably not.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Brooks Brothers and the owner of Men's Warehouse have filed Chapter 11; two more victims of the new WFH lifestyle.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
I still like traditional sound "two-plus" speaker setup and my music center is in the same place as my home cinema, but I can see how somebody else would get a single soundbar plus subwoofer plus if really fancy that some wireless surround sound for their TV and call a day.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2018 430i Gran Coupe
A sound system that has to be wired up and balanced etc.......naw, people today just want to plug an MP3 into a speaker and I have instant music...anywhere, anytime. Like you said, the actual sound is not that important....especially for most of the music these things are used for. Good system could make a difference for classical music or an orchestra, but, do you really need it for today's music? Also, young people don't have the room and don't want to move all that stuff.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Gave up on the surround sound experience two houses ago.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
I do miss it, however.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Anyway, as you said, it probably isn't worth messing with unless I'm hellbent on not spending money. I'm now wonder what happened to my old Pioneer. I barely used it. Can't recall if I gave that away or have it in the basement somewhere.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
He is mostly work from home but is involved in some things that require meetings, and he will likely have some travel with meetings again soon.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
We went to a wedding in St Louis and the brides family provided 3 coach buses for out of town people to travel to and from the Ritz Carlton to the rehearsal party and wedding/reception.
In line to get on the bus one time, the driver, a big guy dressed in a suit with a cowboy hat and a deep southern drawl voice stopped a guy who was about to get on the bus.
He said "Your jacket isn't sitting right, let me fix it for you."
The guy says "Are you sure?"
Driver says, "Don't worry this ain't my first rodeo".
As the bus driver was adjusting the guy's jacket, the guy says "Ok, but I'm the manager at Brooks Bothers in Manhattan".
I didn't really want to walk by the driver to get on the bus after that, but I didn't attract undo attention.
Thinking back, it must have been a prank.
I'm always looking for an extra gig. Local, too.
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Looks like I'll need to stop in Phoenix, too
Just an update on the weather. We are looking at up to 6” of rain tomorrow. Seems the “eye” is going to past right over us. I’m going to build a large boat.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
My ears are aged past being too critical. But I recall my first week at Miami University and the student center had a listening room near the entrance where they played classical music on a system (1966) with Acoustic Research AR3a speakers. I sat and listened to those and was impressed with their true sound. Often after eating in the cafeteria, I'd stop in the room to hear what was playing.
I played clarinet in high school band and I wonder if people who played musical instruments were more attuned to whether the sound from an amplifier and speakers is true to the original performance.
I bought AR3a speakers a few years later when I built my Heathkit. Still have them.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Vintage Acoustic Research speakers are still very impressive- a good choice.
One philosophy my father impressed upon me was, "If you can't afford to go First Class, don't go at all." I guess that's why I'm so averse to compromise when It comes to my cars, my tools, or my audio systems.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
(yes, I know it's a Bill Cosby riff....)
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Shouldn't you be driving a Mercedes? "Die beste oder nichts".
Are you angling for a spot on the boat? Not sure it that would work as ship’s rules require passengers board two by two and you are a unique individual.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
This one is pretty good.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250