We strongly recommend listening to equipment at a dealer before buying.

Listeners new to the hobby routinely discover that they have a preference toward a particular sonic signature, and this preference isn't revealed until you've heard different-sounding systems back-to-back.

For example, some audiophiles seek warmth, strong bass, and holographic imaging. Others want maximum detail and instrument separation. These are very different sonic profiles.

If you buy blind, you can of course wind up with a fantastic system (rely on reviews). But will it be the best system you can get for you? Perhaps not—so only buy online if there are good return policies.

If you're buying from dealers not in your region, Craters & Freighters and Navis are couriers who can freight ship heavy, expensive goods. (We have no affiliation.)