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Definition of "too Hi-Fi"

On numerous occasions others have described a speaker (or other component) as sounding “too Hi-Fi.” What does this mean? Isn't that exactly the goal? Doesn't High Fidelity mean faithful to the original, i.e., sounds like live music, live instruments, or a fool the ear impression of “I'm there,” or “they're here?” It seems contradictory to criticize something for being too close to perfection. Maybe that's taking it too literally. So. . ,

What does “too Hi-Fi” mean to you?
ojgalli
rotarius
431 posts
 
To me "too hifi" means dynamic but over-damped, sterile and unpleasant.
jayboard
301 posts
 
Good question with an easy answer. "Too hi-fi" means the opposite of "musical." There, that should clear things up.
ipy
113 posts
 
agree with Rotarius about sterile ie: clinical to an unpleasant stage, lacking in PRAT. In my case, when I hear "HiFi", I would not be able to sit through a listening session for long without constantly wanting to change the music played. Perhaps a sign for me to look for something more musical/enjoyable??
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,610 posts
 
Hmm....I like it when I hear the the singer's lips part or when I can hear them breathe....to me, it gives me the "you are there" feeling.

I've never heard a system that was "too hi-fi"...to me, it either sounds good or it doesn't. Period.

Maybe I already have it in my system and don't know it.
mixalis
34 posts
 
very analytical and not musical maybe....doesnt bring you in contact with the music......you just "observe" music not enjoying it......
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