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Low volume listening dynamics 2

Hey guys,

Couple of weeks ago I posted a question about suggestions for low volume listening suggestions.

Update: I'm now running a Schiit Valhalla 2 pre, into a home-assembled Icepower class D amp (ASX125), to a pair of full range Audio Nirvana 8" alnicos in free air (gasp, right?). Source is HD streaming. Martin Logan Abyss providing a touch of bass around 90hz.

Wow. Didn't think this combo would make any sense, and yet it sounds delicious. A big thank you to the gentleman who suggested tubes and full rangers. I am in heaven. A good friend who is a recording artist sat there in the sweet spot, listened to Lou Reed, Gerry Rafferty, Diana Krall, The Doors, blown away by the lightness and airiness of the music, the precise soundstage, the listen-ability.

God I love this hobby!

tmalkki
4 responses Add your response
tmalkki OP
24 posts
 
Horns. Hmmmm. I like this suggestion :-)

Correct, highs and mids are exceptionally clear, bass close to nonexistent, hence the light touch with the sub. Crystal clear without brittleness or sharpness
ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,883 posts
 
@ GEORGEHIFI, I concur..
elliottbnewcombjr
5,363 posts
 
IMO, my best guess, what I suspect:

You and your friend must love clarity of highs and mid-range without lows, as, for 2 reasons, you are not getting much bass

1. low volume, our hearing is less sensitive to bass, soooo, as per fletcher munson, bass needs to be progressively boosted in proportion to reduced volume. for me, properly adjusting and retaining bass, i.e. stand up bass in jazz trio, is the key to successful 'involvement' for low volume listening.

2. a driver in ’free air’, the back wave cancels the front wave, and that 8" bass is cancelling it’s own bass waves

crystal clear right?
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Low volume listening dynamics 2
One word, HORNS
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