In article , Paul

wrote:


I agree. However I also think that the reality is that for other items
in the chain, e,g, amplifiers, the level of any imperfections is
generally simply less sigificant than it becomes with speakers and the
listening room acoustic. I say this as someone who used to design
amplifiers for a living.

I couldn't argue with that but reason does tell me that the first and
most important area for examination must be the source (capture and
retrieval).

I'd agree. However the only real control over that which most of us get is
to choose with the care the LP/CD/broadcasts we listen to. It is one of the
reasons I am a long-term 'fan' of BBC Radio 3 as their broadcasting people
often do a wonderful job of capturing the sound of a live performance.


I find it interesting that, at the other end of the system,
we again have immense scope for 'messing up' earlier good work -
another mechanical device. While I haven't seen them mentioned in this
group (perhaps a dirty word?), what is your view on headphones?

Personally, I use them for 'editing' type purposes. But I tend to find them
uncomfortable for serious listening, and prefer good speakers, carefully
placed in the room. However they can deliver excellent results. Again,
however this depends on the source material as well as the tastes of the
end-user.

Slainte,

Jim

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