What Are Your Reference Discs? or Specific Reference Tracks

Stan Getz - The Lost Sessions
Hot Tuna - First (eponymous) disc                                                    
Oscar Peterson with Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson
Most Chris Isaak discs
Jethro Tull - Stand Up  

I enjoy these 3 tracks in particular on any good system, all very well recorded too.
Late to the train by Lump (Laura Marling).
Red Right Hand by Nick Cave.
Think of Me by Jo Hamilton, a twee song but huge sound, a fine recording of female vocal.

I find that the best tool for evaluating new components in my system is human voice accompanied by solo piano. Try James Gilchrist on Linn CKD253 - Oh Fair to See - song cycles by Gerald Finzi. You should hear every inflection in Gilchrist's voice and a good system will bring out (forward) the piano - realistic piano sound too.

A good place to start is by searching for Paul’s Picks. This is from Paul MCGowan of PS Audio.  It is great. He also explains WHY each track is included.  Tidal had a play list set up of most of the tracks.   Another thing that is useful is his book and cd on speaker placement.  Very very helpful. 

A good place to start is by searching for Paul’s Picks. This is from Paul MCGowan of PS Audio.  It is great. He also explains WHY each track is included.  Tidal had a play list set up of most of the tracks.   Another thing that is useful is his book and cd on speaker placement.  Very very helpful.