I believe that rooms should be set up for vinyl or Digital and it's very hard to set them up perfectly for both. Because of the compression inherent in vinyl it is necessary to adjust the speakers accordingly. Also, you will never eliminate the noise inherent in vinyl. Surface noise is a problem even in the best systems. I listen to vinyl when I don't have the digital form of that recording but the wide dynamic range, silent background and the ability to shape the music digitally, and the convenience make me turn to digital 90% of the time. You have to spend a lot more money for perfectly pressed albums than digital and superb analog equipment is more expensive. Either way, just enjoy the music!
What sounds best: Vinyl or CDs
My system in an introductory level of high end music reproduction, I realize. I like music, not so much gadgetry so I am content, although I keep tweeking from time to time trying to get better sound. Martin Logan ESL mains, Def. Tech 800 subs (2), NAD C375BEE Int. Amp, Project Debut Carton turntable w/Ortofon Red cartridge, Yamaha S300 CD player (with a Rega Apollo R player on order), Niagara 1000 power conditioner. My question/concern is this: My CDs sound Sooo much better than my vinyl albums. My vinyl collection is substantial, from the '60s through the '80s, with all in great condition. But on my system CDs are more volume sensitive, with more dynamics and depth. Is this normal or am I missing something in my system? I had originally thought, "Oh well, they are 40+ years old with 40+ year old recording technology". But is there more? I have even gone to point of buying the CD if there is a particular vinyl I want to listen to frequently. Comments?