2. misc-audio
  3. 194141-1466

What is a "reference" system?

OK, most of us have an audio system, mine even works some of the time. But I see that some members have "reference" systems. This has to be better than the assorted junk that I have piled together. Probably a lot better than your rig as well.

But really, what distinguishes these folks "reference" systems from the pedestrian systems that the rest of us have? There must be something, or they could just save the keyboard time and drop the word when discussing their gear. And I am not referring to reviewers, that is a different story and one to examine more carefully in the future.

viridian

Showing 2 responses by mclinnguy

mclinnguy's avatar
mclinnguy
757 posts
 

 Thunderbird is my "reference" hooch. The one that I judge all other hooch by. Otherwise, I would never know how good Cisco, Night Train, Tango, Richard's or MD 20/20 is. 

I have never heard of any of these names. I suppose I need a better frame of reference. 

mclinnguy's avatar
mclinnguy
757 posts
 

My belief is "reference" implies one has more than one system, and the "reference" is the best one. That may be the most familiar, or most revealing system. If one has only one system then that must be their reference system, regardless of price or sound quality. 

Yes, I also do think it is ridiculous- seems like bragging to me. Would a reviewer test a product without putting it in the "reference system"? Obviously not, so why then explain to readers at the onset of the review  it was tested in the "reference system" ? Simply list the other components in the system it was used with. 

 

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