2. analog
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Vinyl playback - lack of bass?

Alright, hopefully this isn't a dumb question.

I split my audio listening between analog and digital. Both setups use the same preamp/amp/speakers etc. I noticed that when listening to records, there isn't as much pronounced bass vs lets say when listening to tidal/qobuz. I'm wondering if its my phono that might have a lack of bass? or is it because my cartridge hasn't fully broken in yet? For fun , I connected my sub when I switched to side 2 yesterday, it helped pronounce the bass a bit more as I elevated the volume on the sub. But nothing crazy. but was decent enough. 

Besides that, everything sounds fantastic and great on LP vs digital. Also, to mention, lately have been playing some older original rock records. I should try popping in a newer record for fun to see if it makes a difference (most likely not analog sourced of course). or I can try the new Black Sabbath Rhino release.

Setup - analog - rega p6 w/ ania cartridge (only 30 hours on the cartridge so far). Phono - Moon 310lp. 

Digital - moon 280d mind2 w/ dac

Rest - Preamp Moon 740p, amp pass labs x250.8 , speakers Sonus Faber Olympica III 

 

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Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
7,634 posts
 

Components make the difference... when the same source material is used (same mastered recordings).

It is your turntable/ cartridge / phonostage. I used to own Olympica 3 speakers and a Pass 350 amp with Simm DAC and CD player. My turntable sounded better than streaming or CDs. With more bass. Simm is detailed oriented and lean sounding. I highly recommend a high quality tube phono stage and turntable. 

My current system the analog and digital legs sound the same... by design. 

I highly recommend being very careful when using subs, They are really easy to turn up too loud or cross over to high and end up negatively impacting the overall sound. It can confuse the central image, disrupt the sound stage. I have frequently walked into a system with a subwoofer(s)... and instantly go over and turn them down... to the delight of the owner. 

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