2. analog
  3. 1202841904

System Synergy Theory

Are the attributes of a component generally aggregate? i.e. if a phono stage has a slow bass transient response and a cartridge has a slow bass transient response � does that mean the sound will be twice as slow relatively speaking. Another example would be a cartridge that sounds airy, but tends to be lean with a bit of harshness in the upper octaves paired with an amplifier that is slightly on the lean side will the sound now be even more lean and harsh?

OR

Do components generally adhere to the �weakest link� theory when paired. i.e. if a phono stage has a slow bass transient response and a cartridge has slow bass transient response � the bass transient would only be as slow as the weakest link in the chain when paired. Same with the other example; is the bright cartridge paired with the bright amplifier only as bright as the weakest link in the chain.

Knowing this would go a long way in helping interpret reviews and estimating how components will match up. Obviously the ultimate is to listen for yourself, but there are far too many components and combinations to try. You could spend a lifetime and still not get through all the possible combinations. Perhaps it depends on the component. Maybe phono stages are aggregate, while amplifiers subscribe to the weakest link theory.


Any thoughts��..
carter9000

Showing 2 responses by mrjstark

mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Just wondering.....are they still selling reviewed equipment on Audiogon ????? Hmmmmm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acoustics & synergy are one of the most ignored aspects by
audiophiles that claim their superior knowledge & know-how.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Now in all seriousness,
off course it is important. I think we all know that and try to do our best in that department. Are we successful ???
Sometimes!!!
But with time and knowledge we'll be getting better.
I think..............
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Hi Arthur (Aball),
I could not said it better myself.
If you think about the time and effort it takes to put together a successful system that will be sonically adequate to your ears and listening space that it's going to be in.
And then you read a review that says:
" To evaluate "X" preamp we have used "X" speakers that we just got, along with "X" CDP that we were so excited to hear and which review will be published in the next issue"
and there is MORE, a lot more but quoteing those reviewers would be a wast of time.
Point is..................

*synergy matteres*
*room matteres*
*personal taste matteres*
*honesty of the reviewer also matteres and his/her "Paper"

There is more but that would take this thread away from the original question.
More to discover