Is it me or new audio gear is too perfect and give ear fatigue?


Since getting back into the hobby during covid I’ve really enjoyed listening to music vs. bluetooth low quality speakers.  Since listening to my Nautilus 803 speakers with old Yamaha Amps (MX1, MX1000) they’ve been sweet sounding and warm.

A lot of people have said the new equipment is near perfect chasing specs, sounding bright and causing ear fatigue.

Curious if people feel the same?

webking185

Showing 1 response by bjp9738

I'm not sure being new or old has as much to do with it as design and synergy between speakers, amplification, cables.  I actually get a physical headache if I listen to a system that is overly bright/detailed.  I recently auditioned a pair of generally well regarded speakers and after about 20 minutes, I got such a headache I had to stop.  I don't know if it was the speakers, the amp or the digital source, but overall it was extremely fatiguing.  The good news is that it made me appreciate the speakers I have so much more and help quash my upgraditis for now.