Should a good system sound bad with bad recording?

I don't consider that the "system sounds bad" in the case of a bad recording. It sounds either accurate or not. The more accurate, the more obvious the recording quality flaws.

I agree that this is the "dangerous line to cross" - where you prefer to not listen to music you like because your system "takes no prisoners" with its accuracy. It is for this reason that certain systems or combinations of components are better suited to some types of music than others.

My solution - a second system which is listenable on lesser quality recordings - some tube warmth and less transparency but it serves the type of music I play on it and provides me enjoyment. For its purpose (and those are the critical words) this is a "good system" for me.

Hi Mr Tennis,

You are right - I should have said "more or less accurate" rather than "accurate or not".

My point is that a system that majors on accuracy will tell it like it is - recording flaws, compression, etc. will be undisguised. I don't think the system will sound "bad" but I do think that that recording might sound more enjoyable on a more forgiving combination.

Hens