Reel to Reel decks

I think the piece of this puzzle that might be missing is that there is not just a synergy between different media and equipment but also the reproduced sound and human auditory physiology and the resulting perception of it by the human brain. Is a recording better because it is mechanically measured to be more accurate when compared to a source, or when it evokes the perception of "walking amongst the musicians"?

Interesting discussion. I am struck by the definition of the source being assumed to be some kind of fixed quantifiable thing. Most of us audiophiles who enjoy "live music" are often disappointed as the acoustics of many venues can be horrible to the point of rendering a mush of sound and echoes. It is easy to see how a recording at the mixer could be vastly superior to the original, "live" event. I don't believe there will ever be a method to perfectly reproduce a musical event with all its nuances. Every method "colors" the music. We have seen the pursuit of accuracy strangle the life out of digitally recorded music. Transferring to a different media can make it better, which I believe is the case with reel to reel.

I understand what you are saying and the process of recordings of recordings has to introduce some error each time. I also have no interest in debating Mr. Karsten, (think I might be at a slight disadvantage), I guess I am saying there may also be a problem with trying to apply objective standards to a predominantly subjective experience. I have many times experienced, both with my own recordings and others, r to r copies which are definitely more dynamic than the vinyl originals, whatever the cause may be. Highly accurate equipment sometimes equals analytical, lifeless sound. Admittedly subjective.

I think you are right, along with the different media, "or quality thereof, 100% agree with Maxell high bias tape comment", I think there are a number of factors that can be involved in a great recording. Digital recordings of high definition files on superior media, ie. "Japanese Taiyo Yuden cd media", can also produce amazing results. Different copies of the same vinyl pressing can sound entirely different,variations in the pressing process I suppose. Equipment compatibility I'm sure is a factor. The interesting part of this discussion for me is maximizing results,while dealing with an industry that produces recordings for the masses and generally not for audiophiles. Listening to the recording,the equipment, and the music, I'm guilty.