Pleasurably better, not measurably better


I have created a new phrase: pleasurably better.

I am giving it to the world. Too many technophiles are concerned with measurably better, but rarely talk about what sounds better. What gives us more pleasure. The two may lie at opposite ends of the spectrum.

I use and respect measurements all the time, but I will never let any one of them dictate to me what I actually like listening to.

erik_squires

It is funny when trying to discuss any subject with nuance how many will misread the intention or position of the OP (i.e. me).

I’m not saying measurements are not useful, I’m declaring what makes them useful is when they serve the purpose of enhancing my sensual experience. The hierarchical order is what I am trying to point out, not a tyranny of one and absence of the other.

Listening to music is my pleasure, much like a meal. It is not my job. It is not a mathematical exercise in assembling very expensive components together so I can accurately see the color of Jupiter’s moons.

Given the recording chain, the variable fads in recording and reproduction over the decades, and the near impossibility of 2 speakers reproducing a complicated soundfield I don’t believe accuracy at the listener location, or even neutrality, is possible. I do not experience sound like an oscilloscope or measurement instrument. I will not put them on a sacred platform as to why or how I choose my gear.

Measurements are a tool.  Use them wisely!  The end result:   Pleasure.  Ahhhhhh…..🙏

If measurements of individual components AND of audio pleasure of individual listeners could be standardized, we end up with only one components in each price category and probably one reviewer who undergoes hearing tests before each review (LOL) I am of opinion that recording techniques (proven by the simple fact they sound so different, starting with fact that microphones are really different) and individual psychoacoustics (proven by the fact that all listeners in a given room seldom fully agree) can not be absolutely compared because they are what they are: individual by default. Anybody who think that democracy (regardless how you can agree to implement it) is the best system for audiophiles ruling their own principalities, is a dreamer at best and naive fool at worst. Coincidentally, the most objective reviewers and best discussion forums must respect INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES.