The Golden Age of music is very subjective as everyone's personal tastes are different. But equipment is a different story because everyone is on the same page when it comes down to advancements. It was either a beneficial one or it wasn't.
So when do you think stereo equipment hit its Golden Age? What was the best era in terms of solid audio performance and the physical craftsmanship?
Rusty Messages: 1148 Registered: May 2018 Location: Kansas City Missouri
Illuminati (3rd Degree)
For me the Japanese and their turntables of the late 70's & 80's till their demise initially. Their innovation and craftsmanship were superb. They did up some fine electronics as well. Just look through the Vintage Knob sometime.
Wayne Parham Messages: 18752 Registered: January 2001
Illuminati (33rd Degree)
I think, in audio, we're in a state of continuity. There has been great stuff in every decade. We made better stuff before the 1970s, generally, but that's because we had so many electronics companies like Phillips, Magnavox, etc. So I think our midrange level and maybe upper midrange products were better before the late 1970s. But the really great stuff is made by niche companies, and we have always had a few passionate great companies in every decade.
In cars, I think America was great in the 50s and 60s but fell to a low point in the late-70s and 80s. But now American cars are back to being excellent. This is probably true of heavy equipment and appliances too.
That's a hard one to answer because they used to take pride in American craftsmanship. They WANTED to do a good job so there was competition on that level.
My preference are the one's they made in the 20's. 1920's that is. I just like the way they look. I would love to be able to replicate one with my own material and tools.