The Newb

In the world of video gaming, there is a term for someone who has little to now experience with a particular game. “Newb”.

Often times you don’t want a newb on your team. They may slow you down or even cause you to get eliminated quickly.

There are sometimes more skilled players, with higher leveling, that are willing to come along side a “Newb” and teach them the ropes, as well as help them level up. Many times, passing on items and knowledge that will help a “Newb“ survive the the game.

Akward Selfie 👆🏻

Hifi Newb…

I recently returned home from The Home Entertainment Show, that was held in Long Beach California.

The Home Entertainment Show AKA “T.H.E. Show” was my first ever HIFi audio show experience. I felt very much and in many ways a “Newb” attending, and very much was indeed.

I felt a bit overwhelmed upon my arrival. Full of excitement and anxiety, doubt and anticipation.

Excitement: because it was a new experience.

Anxiety: because I was wasn’t sure where to start.

Doubt: because I didn’t think I belonged there.

Anticipation: because I was getting to meet some of my Instagram friends for the first time in person. (Which could also fall under the Excitement and Anxiety categories)

Test Driving…

I think (from my perspective anyway) a perfect explanation for what T.H.E. Show was like for someone who has never been would be…

It was like getting to go to an exotic car dealership that had all the models you’ve ever wanted and getting three days to test drive as many of them as you could in the allotted time frame, without having to commit to buying.

I do have to say. About 90% of the HiFi gear at T.H.E. Show (at least for me) was unaffordable but I didn’t let that hold me back from taking all that amazing hifi gear for a test drive.

I mean, if you had the opportunity to test drive a Ferrari F40… you’d do it!

The experience alone was worth every moment.

Higher Level Players…

As mentioned previously in the introduction regarding Newbs… There are higher level players that will sometimes come along side a “Newb” and show them the ropes.

One amazing thing about T.H.E. Show was the people.

There was a inviting and warm welcome upon entering most every exhibitors room.

When I would mention it was my first ever HiFi show, they would encourage me and ask if there was anything I wanted to know. Even showing me to the best listening position.

I asked most every company if it was ok for me to take photos and video and all were kind and accommodating. Some evening letting me in before things kicked off.

I was impressed! I never once felt I was judged in any way. Of course they didn’t know whether or not I could afford their gear.

Maybe someday. Although there were a few offerings that were within my reach.

Multi Player…

There has been a wonderful Instagram HiFi community that has been blossoming over the past few years. People who are like minded, accepting, generous and helpful. Inclusive of people no matter age, race, gender, or economic status.

It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you’ve been a HiFi enthusiast/audiophile for 20 years… all are welcome.

This has been for me such a great part of my Hifi journey. If I have a question, it’s as far as a DM away and always answered with grace and kindness.

Many of these great people were in attendance at T.H.E. Show. Getting to meet many of the Hifi Instagram family in person was awesome!

We all got to further build upon friendships and enjoy the experience together and had an absolute blast hanging out!

Photo Credit: Harris Fogel

Game Over. Press continue…

Now that T.H.E. Show has come and gone.

I find myself grateful for the experience. I feel my listening pallet has been expanded, I got to spend time with some wonderful people and I maybe even gained some experience points to help get through the next level.

Today as I listen to my humble system utilizing some of the same tracks companies were utilizing to show off the qualities of their systems… I find myself content. I mean, if my listening time still moves me, puts a smile on my face, evokes emotion… I’m content!

Do I still have aspersions to attain some of the amazing gear that I had the opportunity to see and hear first hand? You bet I do!

Will I? That‘s to be determined…

T.H.E. Show (at least the Long Beach Show) may be over but there is still more to come from The Home Entertainment Show this year in Denver and I believe Nashville at some point and maybe more, as they expand.

Not sure I’ll make those this year but next year there’s a good possibility I’ll be hitting the “continue” button.

PunkFloyd4eyes