Second Thoughts

[what bass]

I was wondering if anyone has ever had second thoughts about gear they have purchased?

I have been running a Sherbourn PT7030 for a while now. I really like the sound and have had no issues with it but with the new theatre build I wanted to upgrade to Atmos, 4k and the latest HDMI. My plan is to do a 5.2.4 configuration so I ordered a refurb Marantz SR7013 along with an extended warranty from Accessories for less for a decent price. It arrived in fine condition and I don't suspect I will have any issues but, it almost breaks my heart to put the Sherbourn in retirement. Along with what seems to be separation anxiety, I'm beginning to second guess my decision to not go with a pre/pro in favor of an AVR.
The additional cost of more amplification was the main factor in my decision. I have two Emo XPA's, 2 ch. and 3 ch. for what was a 5.1 setup. I was planning on selling the 3 ch., keeping the other to run my mains and put the money toward the new AVR. It made sense when I pulled the trigger but for the past couple days, I've been chewing on this to the point I'm almost willing to find out if Acc 4 Less will do an exchange.

It's a sickness.

 

[Sonnie Parker]

i suspect they would exchange it for you if it hasn't been too long. But yeah... I have second guessed purchases several times, and it might have cost me a little because I get rid of it and buy something else. However, if you are like me and you are buying and selling every year or two anyway, it's not a big deal. The moral of the story it... buy and sale every year or two... problem solve.

 

[what bass]

Thanks Sonnie,

There are times when it seems this hobby may drive me to the poor house, especially when it comes to AVRs. I don't have the same problem with vehicles or other electronic items. In fact, Upgraditus may be a real problem that requires clinical treatment. I think there may be a case for some financial relief, may have to look into that.

With the everchanging landscape of video resolution, speed of communication devices, latest sound channel configurations etc. it's easy to look back and say, if I'd only waited one more year. Then of course, you'd be a procrastinator and who wants to be one of those? I suspect computer hobbyists face the same challenges, probably more severe.

In the end, I will live with this decision, for a while. Money needs spent on construction materials and room treatments.
I imagine down the road I will return to separates, not because I'm convinced there's a huge sonic difference but because it's fun and who doesn't like more power?

I'm beginning to suspect these forums are a form of enabling.

 

[Sonnie Parker]

I got it bad with vehicles. And every time I buy a new one, I think to myself, in just 6 months the new is gonna be gone and I'll want something else.

Enjoy while you can... when you are old and using a cane or a walker, all that money won't do you any fun good.

 

[what bass]

The days of a walker or cane may be closer than I'm comfortable with.

 

[pratul]

I got it bad with vehicles. And every time I buy a new one, I think to myself, in just 6 months the new is gonna be gone and I'll want something else.

Enjoy while you can... when you are old and using a cane or a walker, all that money won't do you any fun good.

What are you driving these days? Curious

 

[Sonnie Parker]

I'm in a 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie 4WD Crew Cab right now. I may get me a Limited later this year... depending.

Audio is definitely worse ... constantly changing.

On the positive side... been married to the same woman for 37 years as of today.

 

[pratul]

I'm in a 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie 4WD Crew Cab right now. I may get me a Limited later this year... depending.
Nice! Guess we share three hobbies.. theater, auto and the other one is based on the site on your profile

Audio is definitely worse ... constantly changing.

On the positive side... been married to the same woman for 37 years as of today.

Congratulations!! We celebrated our 30th last month.

 

[what bass]

Congratulations both on successful marriages. My first didn't last and I dont plan on another. Mainly because I'll probably never find a partner can put up with me.

I drive a 2014 Ram. Paid for with only 43k mi. When the weather is acceptable, I ride the motorcycle.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I've had second thoughts about gear, too. Usually takes about 6 months to sink in, but once it does it's impossible to shake.

The AVR vs Pre/Pro issue is an interesting one. To be honest, that 7013 that you bought is a rock-solid receiver. If I were you, I'd hang on to it, save my pennies for a year... and then buy a 3 channel amp from Emotiva and dump the L/C/R duties to the external amp. All of the other channels are fine running off the 7013. I think that would give you a great balance of a fantastic receiver/processing AND the added benefit of a solid stream of power to the three channels that need it the most.

 

[pratul]

It isn't that bad for me in the theater department. I changed my pre-proc once when everything needed HDMI. That was after 10 years. I just got the Anthem AVM70. The first few weeks I felt I had made a mistake and didn't like the sound at all. Found out about REW and after seeing the graphs I hated everything I have even more. The graphs made everything sound even worse Since then I have read a lot about room treatments and added a bunch of absorbers and the theater sounds significantly better. I am very happy with the pre-proc now. My projector will be next in the next year or two. It is worse for me in the cars dept. Have to change every 2 - 3 years.

In your case I like @Todd Anderson 's suggestion above.