Originally posted by pbirkett
Anyway, how does one define an "audiophile". Speaking personally, I notice that it seems to be a tag that some label themselves with to make them sound like "experts" on the subject. I love audio gear, but I wouldnt call myself an audiophile. Most people who call themselves audiophiles arent to be trusted IMO.

Also, regarding the "hifi" argument, and what is and isnt. A general consensus of people I speak to on hifi forums, say that there is 2 main types of system out there. There are music systems, and hifi systems. Many people into music systems (like myself), think that "proper" hifi is somewhat dull and boring to listen to in many respects. Everything is wonderfully realistic, airy, and well seperated, but seems to lack music - more of a collection of sounds if you like. Music systems dont lose sight of the music itself, but usually at the expense of something a hifi does well, maybe realism, soundstage, imaging, whatever, but groove well. Most people into the "hifi" side claim that such systems are harsh and unrealistic. Its possible to do both, but that costs a HELL OF A LOT of cash. There are also systems that manage to f**k both of them up, and sound totally unmusical and unhifi. This also costs a HELL OF A LOT of cash, because that person will invariably replace the lot in time, like I did with my first proper system.

Just my 2 cents
Websters Defines it as:
"A person who is especially interested in High Fidelity audio reproduction."

I vehemently stand by the notion that there is more to this definition. I dont believe that Audiophilia is something you can purchase, buying speaker "XYZ" which were rated "product of the year" by HiFi magazine doesnt make you an audiophile.

I would dare to say that the guy in his garage stooped over his third set KLH speakers, replacing drivers, adding acoustic foam, adding and removing crossovers; is more of an audiophile then dude that sinks thousands of dollars on speakers cause they got 10 out of 10 stars in Audiophile magazine. For me its more about the journey then the destination.

In my opinion being an Audiophile is like becomeing Enlightened, if you wear it on your shirt like a badge for everyone to see, then you dont have it.