It’s an unfortunate fact that no audio system--regardless of size & price--can even come close to the power & scope of live music (or live in studio music). So those of use who love audio gear as a means of enjoying music are left with choices re which subset of musical characteristics we prioritize. For example, it’s rather easy to find gear that emphasizes transients, dynamics, deep bass & high treble to give an illusion of realism, accuracy, resolution--all the usual descriptives. But someone else may value gear that emphasizes soundstage, subtle ambient/acoustic cues, roundness of tone/timbre, and natural rendition of space.
I’m in the latter camp; my preferences were formed by years of attendance at live music of all kinds, including large-scale symphonic, choral, and operatic works (plus countless rock, jazz, and world music performances). It took years of wasted time & money to find equipment that suited my tastes. In the big 2-channel system, that meant Vandersteen speakers (whose 6dB/octave crossovers trade a bit of dynamic strength for musical coherence and a relaxed quality that appeals to me); and tube amplification, for that 3D rendition of notes that sounds like reality to me.
I’m now deep into desktop audio, including high-end headphones--and all the same comments apply. It’s easy to find gear that throws out razor-sharp transients and ear-busting treble. Me being me, I go in the other direction.
The point really is: we’re all just selecting & assembling our preferred subset of musical qualities, working with the best that audio equipment can do to imitate music. There's really no right or wrong in these preferences...
I’m in the latter camp; my preferences were formed by years of attendance at live music of all kinds, including large-scale symphonic, choral, and operatic works (plus countless rock, jazz, and world music performances). It took years of wasted time & money to find equipment that suited my tastes. In the big 2-channel system, that meant Vandersteen speakers (whose 6dB/octave crossovers trade a bit of dynamic strength for musical coherence and a relaxed quality that appeals to me); and tube amplification, for that 3D rendition of notes that sounds like reality to me.
I’m now deep into desktop audio, including high-end headphones--and all the same comments apply. It’s easy to find gear that throws out razor-sharp transients and ear-busting treble. Me being me, I go in the other direction.
The point really is: we’re all just selecting & assembling our preferred subset of musical qualities, working with the best that audio equipment can do to imitate music. There's really no right or wrong in these preferences...