So, a reviewer just said something I need to talk about.


I will not mention the reviewer, nor the specific equipment being reviewed, but this statement was made, talking about sax and strings: "the strings had real body, and it sounded like real strings being played". The tonality of the instruments was what he/she was talking about. I get this. The tone, the spatiality of the instruments, the stage that was presented. All well and good. What about the engagement between the listener and the musician. I have stated so many times here, ad nauseam, that the most important aspect of music listening, for me (and not enough with other listeners) is the "playing of the instruments". The artistry of the musician behind those strings. I just don’t get it. When I listen to Jeff Beck (RIP), using him as an example, what I am attracted to, FIRST & FOREMOST, is his PLAYING. Reviewers talk about "sound". Most people here talk about "sound". I spend more time now on other sites, that speak about the music playing and, the compositions. For whatever reasons, I seem to be realizing, that A’gon members, as so many reviewers, talk about sound. They very rarely mention MY most important aspect of listening. The musicianship and the compositions. Another rant from me. What are your thoughts on this? How do you listen? What do you listen for/to? What does your system convey to you? I know I am out of line again, but........My best to everyone. Always, MrD.

mrdecibel

Showing 1 response by oregon

I go for the “connection “. Are the musicians speaking (not just playing) with their instruments? With their voice and words?

 It’s great to have a high end system, but, for me, it’s all about the MUSIC, not just the sound. 
 For example, Julie Londons, Cry me a River. Of course, it’s well recorded ( lovely Barney Kessel guitar). But, Julie expresses pain, disappointment, loss, anger, betrayel, treason! And, sweet  revenge…all those things girls wanted to tell me. But, couldn’t articulate it like Julie. (That’s why I play it privately in the wee hours). 
 She almost makes me cry when I feel her pain. Almost. 
 As an audiophile, whenever I host a listening session for my fellow audiophiles, I always have a box of Kleenex in the room just in case.  So, think about all those cry babies before you break out your Jim Nabors collection, mmmannnnn!