Thread: Four Powerful Words…

The article intriguingly points out the generational difference in adaptability amongst audiophiles, highlighting that older enthusiasts, often classified as 'baby boomers', may be less comfortable with embracing changes and new technologies. This is not surprising, considering the digital age, marked by the advent of the internet around 50 years ago and the rise of computer audio in the late '90s to early 2000s, is a relatively new phenomenon in their lifetime.

Younger listeners, on the other hand, have grown up immersed in this technological landscape, making it second nature to them. They have adopted newer formats of music consumption with ease; instead of buying CDs, they prefer the convenience of streaming their music. High-definition audio doesn't seem to be a priority for them, as evidenced by the popularity of platforms like Spotify, which, despite not offering CD-quality streams, are wildly popular among this demographic.

Not explicitly mentioned in the article is the shift in evaluation methods amongst the new generation of audiophiles. Unlike their predecessors, who often relied on anecdotal evidence or personal experience, more and more younger audiophiles lean more towards objective data when assessing audio equipment. They're more likely to trust empirical measurements and scientific data over purely subjective reviews.

Furthermore, the economic landscape also plays a role in this shift. High-end audio equipment can be quite expensive, and with the younger generation often grappling with economic challenges, investing in top-tier audio equipment might not be feasible. Thus, they prioritize experiences and the joy of listening over the gadgetry, which is a paradigm shift in the audiophile community.

The high-end audio industry is going through a Cadillac moment. Years ago GM leadership realized that the Cadillac brand was associated with old folks and that most buyers of the brand were buying their last Cadillac. They had to change to appeal to a younger demographics. Hopefully, high-end audio manufacturers will realize it before it is too late.

Originally Posted by still-one

Although I don't agree with every point the author makes, the general theme of the article it worth considering. Thanks for the post.

X 2

Originally Posted by nicoff

Younger listeners, on the other hand, have grown up immersed in this technological landscape, making it second nature to them. They have adopted newer formats of music consumption with ease; instead of buying CDs, they prefer the convenience of streaming their music. High-definition audio doesn't seem to be a priority for them…

Agree!

Originally Posted by nicoff

Not explicitly mentioned in the article is the shift in evaluation methods amongst the new generation of audiophiles. Unlike their predecessors, who often relied on anecdotal evidence or personal experience, more and more younger audiophiles lean more towards objective data when assessing audio equipment. They're more likely to trust empirical measurements and scientific data over purely subjective reviews.

And that's one of the reasons why they don't go far in the hobby and even move away.
We understand the world through reason but assimilate it through the senses.
Do the colors exist?
No.
And yet do we or do we not see different colors?
So why should someone insist on "listening" to technical specifications? That´s a dead end, for sure.

Originally Posted by nicoff

Furthermore, the economic landscape also plays a role in this shift. High-end audio equipment can be quite expensive, and with the younger generation often grappling with economic challenges, investing in top-tier audio equipment might not be feasible.
…They had to change to appeal to a younger demographics. Hopefully, high-end audio manufacturers will realize it before it is too late.

Agree!

Originally Posted by Mr Peabody

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Audio/music is a passion that I feel you have to be born with, you have it or not, it's not just something you do or pick up, like you would Pickle Ball. That's they way it is with me.

Agree!

Originally Posted by Mr Peabody

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Everyone who wears earbuds maybe considered a potential customer but I bet few are audiophiles or become one.

Agree!