I never knew about the humidity factor! That could explain my static and noise issues, but I think dirty records is part of it also. I only have record cleaning spray and cloth, which really isn’t very effective. I also think that using solution to clean the stylus is a good idea? I imagine it getting a buildup of dirt over time which isn’t removed just by brushing. I hate to even use the brush though, knowing how precise the tips need to be. I guess they’re way too hard to be damaged by bristles though.

Those brands you mentioned aren’t bad, just not “highest quality“ as you said in the title. Most people would be perfectly happy with B&W, PMC and Kef. Even Klipsch make some good speakers. It was the fact you said highest quality which made it amusing.

I haven’t experienced most so who really knows? I own/have owned Primare, Chord and Pathos, which are all quite good.

When I think of highest quality I think of these brands…. Gryphon, MSB, Pass Labs, ARC, Audia Flight, Accuphase, Luxman, Vitus etc.

Some people are. I did for some time but realised pretty quickly that it would probably be a never ending process. Having finite resources helps, meaning you can’t buy x speakers or y amplifier.

At the end of the day, it’s about enjoying music (for me). I have a hifi that makes listening very enjoyable, so I’m content with what I have, but am well aware that there is probably better audio out there. I don’t have the money to find out though. My system took a few years to get to it’s current iteration and took several rounds of buy amp and speakers, then upgrade. That gets old quick especially if you’re in a situation that makes resel difficult (as I am when it comes to large things like speakers).

It’s funny because I am a bit of a shopaholic, but I guess I’ve come to the conclusion that there will always be something else to try, so why bother if you’ e got a good system? I recently checked out some new products like the Eversolo streamers and Kef R3 Meta etc, simply out of boredom and wanting to watch something different on youtube. I quickly realised this is a bad idea lol. It’s fun for a brief period to watch the latest hifi show in Munich or wherever, but gets old quickly.

Not really something I worry about. I’ve been just as happy with small bookshelf speakers, as with 4 woofer floor standers. Current speakers I’m using are large bookshelf (Linton heritage) and they’re fine in my open plan house. That’s what the volume knob is for!

I have to space any speakers about 15 ft apart, which effects separation and focus, but fortunately can compensate somewhat with my amp having a balance setting. I sit between 7 and 10 ft away and never turn my amp up fully. Half to 2/3s is plenty.

Turn up the volume. Ever notice how volume relates to space within a vessel etc? And it also means the amount of sound on an amplifier. Whattttt?

What about the camera you used?! The photo is excellent.