@ghdprentice Thanks, I like the 2 week synch idea, I will try that out.
Techniques for isolating and comparing a component upgrade or change
Recently, I've changed my turntable mat from a leather mat to an acrylic mat. I was wondering what techniques members try to compare sound of one item vs. another? My approach is to minimize as much change as possible other than the item upgraded which entails same, components, same room, same music selection.
Ideally a dual set up with an A/B switch between the two identical set ups might be nice, but not very practical for most situations. In my case I'm playing the same music track with one mat; then switching mats and playing the same single track. I then progress to playing a full album side and switching mats again.
With a change so subtle I struggle to find real difference between the two; I think I hear more clarity with one and then I'm not sure. Is there another way to measure small changes that an alternative mat may produce? An approach that might work for comparing other small changes like new cables or other components?
My system is detailed in my profile. And yes, I've considered that there is no difference or that I'm overthinking this one 😉
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@cd318 I totally agree on friend opinions; no one I know locally takes the time to really listen to a system at a level I do. But they are in for casual enjoyment not analysis so I don't expect much depth of analysis. Also, agree on the first impression vs memory comment and over obsession with small changes. Yea, I'm guilty at times, but most of us would not be on this forum if we weren't tinkering with details. Sometime its just fun for me to obsess, other times, I just relax, sit back and enjoy the music and lyrics. Thanks for your input. |
Yea, I'm guilty at times, but most of us would not be on this forum if we weren't tinkering with details. Sometime its just fun for me to obsess, other times, I just relax, sit back and enjoy the music and lyrics.
It's taken me years and years to get the balance back from critical listening to primarily enjoying the music once more. Funnily enough I've also gradually shifted a little from being predominantly a lyrics first man at the same time.
Of course you're right, we wouldn't be here if we didn't deeply care about the sound. I still check the sound quality when buying anything from a smart TV to a smartphone. From a laptop to PC speakers. From headphones to portable speakers. From vacuum cleaners to washing machines - ok, maybe not the SQ but certainly the dB noise levels.
One of my friends has just replaced his Arcam 7 amp with an Arcam 8r and wants me to have a listen. Kind of puts me in a dilemma because if I can't hear a difference, I'm sure he's going to be disappointed. (Perish the thought it might actually sound worse!).
Anyway, I'm not too worried as I recall the 8r getting some favourable reviews back in the day. It might not sound much better but it certainly shouldn't sound any worse.
Anyway, I hope you can always enjoy your audio journey. |
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