To me, PRaT is a subjective (although not stupid) term. To me, it refers to how realistic the music sounds, i.e., does it sound like you are there? Does it give the illusion of a performance right in front of you, with depth, width and proper tone? Since that is so dependent upon system, synergy, room size and treatment, etc., it can only be subjective. I never refer to PRaT for that reason — I just say that my system makes me feel that I am there witnessing the performance, wide and deep soundstage, etc. Those are terms that although they are subjective, they have some general understanding among the audiophile community.
What exactly is PRaT???
Ok, it’s like this thing and is associated with “toe tapping” and such. I confess, I don’t get it. Apparently companies like Linn and Naim get it, and I don’t and find it a bit frustrating. What am I missing? I’m a drummer and am as sensitive as anyone to timing and beats, so why don’t I perceive this PRaT thing that many of you obviously do and prize as it occurs in stereo systems? When I read many Brit reviews a lot of attention goes to “rhythm” and “timing” and it’s useless to me and I just don’t get it. If someone can give me a concrete example of what the hell I’m not getting I’d sincerely be most appreciative. To be clear, enough people I greatly respect consider it a thing so objectively speaking it’s either something I can’t hear or maybe just don’t care about — or both. Can someone finally define this “thing” for me cause I seriously wanna learn something I clearly don’t know or understand.