Background: I have a Cambridge Audio CX stack (CXA81, transport, streamer) connected to a pair of Jamo C97II and a Jamo sub. Initially, the CXA81 and the Jamos were a bit bright compared to when I was using the AXR100. With time, the combination seemed to mellow out and sound pretty nice. The center imaging is amazing and the soundstage is solid. About a year ago, I did audition a pair of KEF R3 non-Meta and after some A/B testing, we both preferred the Jamo setup. But that didn’t quell the desire to upgrade, and after hearing the KEF R11 Meta in-store, I was blown away.
How do you fight the urge to upgrade? As I approach 50, I find myself looking at things with a certain finality aspect. I want to buy things that I’ll be happy with having for the rest of my life. The R11s are within my budget, but am I really going to experience that much of a huge difference? Or do you find that you give in more often than not?
I upgraded slowly but economically safely over the years until I have a beautiful sounding system. My last purchase was a Bryston power amp that’s guaranteed for 20 years and can be sent in for refurbishment when necessary.
I find in my later retired years, I have more time to enjoy my music and my sound system. This is a good time to have reached your pinnacle of enjoyment and to stop chasing rainbows (unless you have the monetary means of course, then all bets are off).
I do try to avoid the old adage, “He who dies with the most toys wins.”