The character of analog and digital

Sns

”seems one would always have to be in analytical listening mode to depreciate either format”

Very well put

When I  brought up the issue it was NOT my intention to determine which format was better, merely to compare them.  I guess, however, it was inevitable that an argument would ensue.

Millercarbon,

Yes, a very welcome back to you. I’m honored to be the venue for one of your initial posts.
Until recently I was in total agreement with your analog/digital view. As written above, I no longer see the dichotomy as so clear cut.

ghdprentice: “The late 50’s / early 60’s vinyl really stand out as jaw droppingly good.”

Agree wholeheartedly 

What I’m trying to say is that if you’re into the music first you’re more likely to make a good judgement as to whether the SQ is enhancing the musical experience.

Whether analog or digital, one must try to obtain the musical message first then accommodate the ears to the particular sonic quality. Something we audiophiles find hard to do.

Only then can we make a truly informed judgement on SQ

 I listen to classical 95% of the time.  I think it’s safe to say the majority of Agoners don’t.  I put on a vintage James Taylor LP (One Man Dog) and compared it to a streamed hi res file of the same track from Qobuz. The record easily sounded better than the file. I know this is only a one title sample but I find  in classical, the reverse is more often true.  Maybe my observations will differ due the fact that I listen mostly to classical and the majority don’t.

Yogiboy,

Based on the minuscule sales of classical vis a vis pop and rock in the general public, I think it’s a safe assumption.

One observation I’ve made for many years and even today, is that as volume increases at higher volumes in analog the sound opens up more, whereas in digital it tends to very slightly contract the soundstage.

YMMD

Frogman,

You are allowed to express an opinion without argument.  
And, the more I listen, I happen to agree with you.