@stuartk I have a dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31 band EQ. I can fine tune the frequencies that need to be addressed, unlike the Schiit. Also, the RF filtering and isolated transformer was a must for me to prevent EMF contamination in my installation. Kinda expected to ship it right back, but damn if it ain’t working some kinda magic that I’m finding hard to resist. Cable changes are rendered even more obvious when using the dbx as well, which kinda shocks me. Still could try a high end PC on the unit but it is fed through a decent power distribution outlet but maybe? Anyway, Sweetwater gives me 30 days no hassle returns so why not for $465
How do you judge audio components and speakers?
I would say - listening to music you're familiar with, and comparing. We can talk about tight/bloomy bass, midrange clarity, treble extension and things of that nature. We can also be very specific with regards to how a particular track is supposed to sound; based on high-performance gear that we were able to experience - but only if it purports to be accurate without sonic colorations. Therefore, I guess you could say we have a reference point. This part is what I would consider "objective performance."
Along with this, measurements go hand-in-hand.
On the other side of the coin - subjective performance is how we "want our systems to sound." If the vocals are too bright or sharp, if snares or unpleasant sounding instrumentals ruin an otherwise good song, it's usually because the system is too accurate. So high-end audio is about chasing an ideal that doesn't exist in reality - but in the minds of audiophiles who are seeking a very particular kind of sonic presentation that bodes well with their music library as a whole....giving you just enough detail to keep you interested, while at the same time having a sense of realism, presence, and imaging that makes the speakers dissapear. We are seeking the illusion of a live performance.
The above are just my points. Feel free to share what you think. If you think I'm wrong, I don't mind.
Cheers.
Jack
- ...
- 142 posts total
I have a set selection that I initially evaluate each component/change thereof... 1.) Maria Callas- Carmen 2.) Frank (Live at the Sands) 3.) Michael Legrand Ice Station Zebra 4.) Caprice Viennois 5.) Skynyrd (the spoken vocal at the beginning of Sweet Home Alabama) 6.) Natalie Dessay/Legrand Entre elle et lui 7.) Mountain/West, Bruce and Lang Full length, snippets, chords and riffs....and like others mentioned, for around a week as I calibrate my experience to my expectations |
@stuartk No expertise needed…just plug it in between your source and amplifier or preamplifier. Any questions can be answered by rep from Sweetwater. |
And to that end this process has been for my vintage equipment...recently (on the digital forum) I am adding digital in a new system. I ran my protocol thru my home theater configuration (just using it as a learning digital test bed) and while great for U571 and other movies, I discovered that is was exhausting to listen to music on for any time period...I was somewhat surprised at that... |
- 142 posts total