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Negative feedback Amp=more faithful reproduction?

Negative feedback (NFB) vs zero negative feedback (ZNFB). There seems to be unsubstantiated contention that ZNFB amps sound more realistic. I know this is an age old debate favoring the ZNFB design, but I think most audiophiles have never bothered to look into this matter and believe the advertisements and proponents of zero NFB design. I have been in that camp until recently. My own experience and research into articles on this matter leads to me believe NFB is needed for faithful reproduction of music. I'm not saying NFB design is more "musical", which is a highly subjective term and usually means more euphonic or colored. I've posted a similar question awhile back, but I was hoping we can have a more evidence based discussion on this matter. Perhaps, we need clarification of descriptive terms we use to describe sound. My contention is, in general, NFB designs produces a more accurate or faithful reproduction of music than ZNFB designs. Here is a very good article on feedback and distortion:

http://sound.westhost.com/articles/distortion+fb.htm
dracule1

Showing 3 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
This has been discussed many times with same division of opinions. The accuracy position has no absolute definition, nor does musicality and natural camp proponents.In the end we all choose components based on how they sound (our ears). Those who prefer the presentation of NFB designs should obviously buy them just as others who prefer ZNFB components should buy those. It's subjective and there's no avoiding that point.Trying to determine which side is right is fruitless. Buy what sounds best to you, you'll be happier.What does it matter if someone has different listening preferences. I'm glad there're multiple topology alternatives avaliable. There is no objective standard that is going to solve any thing.
Regards,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
I 'm glad to see most of the replies are based on common sense and actual listening experiences.Which ever amplifier type sounds best to you, that's the one to buy. No need to cite this paper or that article to strengthen your preferences. I don't know why people need validation for their choices. For me, I'll take a well designed ZNFB SET amplifier anytime.It matters none at all if someone prefers something completely different, so what.Make a choice and stop worrying if others disagree. Different ears (and brains)will choose accordingly, imagine that.
Regards,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
Mt10425 and others have given very thoughtful answers and points of view. Dracule,you say you are`nt seeking validation but you responses suggest otherwise.There is no technical explanation to support your position,it`s simply your own preference as to what sound you happen to like.There`s no objective determination to seek in subjective issues as this is.Regardless of what forum or subject heading you choose to post on, the results/replies won`t change.You prefer the sound of NFB amps for the reasons you cite, it`s nothing more or less than that.Being condescending(as though you`ve seen the light now and other have`nt) to those who prefer a sound different from what you consider to be right or more"accurate" is pointless.Mt10425 is`nt off topic at all.
Regards,
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