Improbable Insights

Historically, whenever I’d buy something, I’d always make compromises. That’s because what I wanted would seem out of reach. This has happpened on more occasions than I can mention.

Let’s take audio speakers as an example. I’ve had a pair of Paradigm Studio 20s rev 3′s as my main left/right pair for years now. They sound terrific — neutral, balanced, airy, clean. I really wanted a center channel speaker to match them, but the then CC-470s cost $700. So I compromised, and instead used a Definitive Technology Procenter 2000s, which cost about half as much. I partially rationalized my decision by telling myself that the area I’d mount the speaker couldn’t handle the much heavier CC-470.

When I found out the CC-470s were being phased out, and the only real match for the Studio 20s would be much pricier, I finally bit the bullet and picked up one of the last remaining CC-470s. The difference was, well, astounding.

A similar thing happened with tripods. I have a lot of professional grade gear:  a Nikon D300, 24-70 f2.8, 70-200 f2.8VR, etc. But when I bought a tripod, the prices of good tripods left me a little breathless, so I bought a midrange Velbon. It was heavy, and after about a year, one of the friction levers that hold the legs in place broke. I stepped up a bit to a midrange Manfrotto that was lighter, but still bulky and heavy. So I used it at home, but never took it anywhere. Finally, I broke down and bought a Gitzo 2540. Now I actually use the tripod more.

I went through similar experiences with tripod ball heads, DVD players, bicycles. In the end, I bought what I really wanted, but went through one or more interim products. That meant the path to getting what I really wanted was more expensive than if I’d just bought the right thing in the first place.

So really, if you’re on the fence, and the higher end graphics card, or better cell phone, or somewhat larger, better HDTV seems just a little too much… go for it. As long as it doesn’t result in bankruptcy or divorce, you (and your family) will be much happier. You’ll pay less money over the long run. And judging from my experience, you’ll keep your gear longer, too.