It's like anything else. You gotta meet some unspoken standards to be in the 'club.' Way back then, they knew who you were. You showed up at the club on time. You talked the talk, and without a moments notice corrected others that were misinformed. But now, you really have little idea of who is who. For example, I am sure that I don't pass the audiophile bar. It isn't about the equipment. That's covered. And the music, check. And when I listen, it just has to be right. So what's the gap, you ask? Unlike most of this elite group, I listen maybe once or twice a month. Yup, when I was young, everyday was a listening session in my home. Music was always playing. I have no explanation for this and it doesn't bother me. It's just an observation. I hope they don't make me turn in my ring.