what is the purpose of a stereo system ?


yes this is a philosophical question. i think it is the basis for many disagreements as to what is good sound and is a useful issue to discuss.

here are 6 categories for identifying the purpose of a stereo system:

1)as a window on the source--neutrality (truth)

2)to recreate the sound of music--musicality (beauty)

3)to statisfy one's sonic preferences--idiosyncratic

4)as a status symbol to impress other people--non sonic (psychological)

5)to create a salutary affect, such as lowering blood pressure, relaxation, stimulation etc.--non sonic (physiological)

6)as a catalyst to enhancing another activity--background

some of the disagreements as to component preferences or the sound of stereo systems may result from differing ideas as to what a stereo system should do.

a stereo system which puts one to sleep--a salutary affect may be considered poor quality when viewed as a conveyor of what's on a recording.

i hope this helps to view componets ind stereo systems ina different perspective.
mrtennis

Showing 5 responses by phd

Onhwy61, are you serious or being sarcastic? I don't think your system is catching the chicks, it has to be your magnetism & good looks.
It's both, the gear and the music, you can't have one without the other. Although this website is strictly a means of buying, selling gear, & other associated items, the underlying common denominator is the love of music. Having a quality stereo system reflects both pride in ownership & having the ability to deliver a musical presentation that is satisfying & enjoyable. John Hillig himself said that coming home to a great sounding stereo system is like finding the proverbial oasis in the desert. Anyway gear is a means to the end & some of us do fall prey to the merry-go-round at times, losing sight of what is important, but eventually we all come back to our senses.
Onhwy61, good answer! I'm only serious half the time. Hugh Hefner has the worlds best job, how many guys would like to be in his shoes?

I could easily see how hifi use to be sexy. At that point in time bigger was really better.
OOPs, I forgot to take the quiz. Lets see, we have six categories to pick from, hmmm. You know, I wish there was a seventh category that is designated all of the above. I will pick all six categories, I think they all accurately describe my purpose of owning a stereo and I'm being very serious. Mrtennis excellent thread!
Gunbei, your right, slippers! I was up later than usual last night agonizing over why my system sounded different than it did the day before when no changes were made, probably should write it off as a mood change. I don't think any of Mrtennis's categories covers this scenario, well maybe category five?