I get a lot of email requests for advice on what to buy, how to get more out of a system, or how to solve a problem. The conversation typically starts out with the desired end product. "I was thinking about a new amplifier." One of the first questions I ask is "what is it you're hoping for?" "Better imaging. I can't seem to get the music detached from my speakers. I want that effortless 3-dimensional sound you always write about." Turns out the person's amps are probably the least of their problems. Instead, I might recommend a new pair of speakers, or preamplifier, or even just setup. The point is, knowing what it is you're hoping to achieve is a huge step forward in figuring out how you're going to get there. It might seem obvious but you'd be surprised.