2. speakers
  3. 1142315843

Accurate vs Musical

What is the basis for buying an "accurate" speaker over a "musical" one? I am very familiar with most audiophile jargon but this is one that confuses me. Musical to me means that the speakers convey the "air" or/and overtone of instruments.

"Accurate" on the other hand is what, the accuracy of a single note? If accurate does not convey the space of an instrument, how can it be defined as accurate? I can understand why an "accurate" speaker can be used in a recording studio or as a studio monitor but for casual listening/auditioning?

Thiel is an accurate speaker but Magnepan is more musical so which would truly be more faithful to the original source? Someone please clear this up for me. Thanks.
ebonyvette

Showing 2 responses by dawgbyte

dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
hobbyjaybo -

You mention Hales in your list of well designed speakers. I'd second your endorsement, as I have owned a pair of C-5's for 18 years. I use them for both home theatre and standalone music appreciation sessions. I have been curious as to where I can go from Hales. I prefer a transparent loudspeaker with well balanced dynamics (aka, I like quality bass). I believe I'm looking for what could best be described as a holographic soundstage. I want to feel immersed in the presentation and not confined to a minuscule sweet spot. Do you have any suggestions on where I can go from Hales?

Sorry in advance for hijacking the thread, but perhaps this tangent will benefit the original poster.
dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
Prof - Thank you for your response. I misspoke, I have T-5's, not C-5's.

JA speakers have a great reputation, they're also a bit pricey. Salk Signature Sound's Veracity HT3 is a somewhat similar design that also uses a SEAS midrange driver and us under $7K. The ELAC AF-61 has also peaked my interest. Not sure if you've test driven any ELAC speakers.
More to discover