Yes, I know it's OT, but a thought on hifi, which can be applied to
photographic pursuits too.
Logic goes that a hifi component is only better than another if the listener
can *hear* the difference. This should be the definitive test for any tester
or purchaser. If you can't hear it then it's not worth paying for, whatever
the advert or sales person says.
Now, while that's all well, it's not necessarily all there is to the
equation. Why? You are sitting in the hifi shop listening room and can hear
the difference when you switch from one unit to another. Great. When you get
home to your 'old' system, you convince yourself you are missing the
performance provided by that component.
However, if you carry on listening with your old system, and instead of
listening to the hifi you put on a nice record/CD/tape (yes, I know, an old
cassette tape!) and actually listen to the performers, you *may* realise
that the new component isn't really necessary.
Bear with me. You see, the upgrade you sought may not be absolutely critical
to musical enjoyment. I have considered upgrading components of my audio
setup, but decided that, as I get enough enjoyment from my already fine
equipment, my money is better spent on CDs.
The same goes for photography. Acquiring gear is fine, and enjoyable and
sometimes necessary. But sometimes the draw of it can divert us from the
real goal: making photographs. I'm guilty of spending too much time thinking
of new gear when I'd be better off researching photo opportunities, people
and locations. If a piece of hardware helps us take better photos it is
surely worthwhile. If the photos are not significantly better afterwards
then one has to ask if it is worth it.
So those of you with half-decent hifi: stop worrying. When it breaks or
degrades to the point of being less than enjoyable, get it fixed. In the
meantime put on some music and sit back, relishing the experience provided
by what you have.
Just a thought...
Simon E.
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