2. amps-preamps
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Please help me understand

There are two concepts I've never been able to reconcile. How is it possible for different amps to have similar distortion levels (inaudible), yet still have what audiophiles might describe as a "tonal signature". In other words, how is it possible for an amp to have a perceived "warm" or "bright" sound, if it's accurately reproducing the input signal? It seems to me that all high quality, properly functioning amps should sound the same. If they don't, them some of them aren't doing their job very well.
danoroo
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
This is why measurements have 'limited' use when it comes to audio components. The ears can simply hear far more than any current test bench equipment can hope to measure. Maybe one day, but certainly not now.I`ll choose what sounds good vs impressive numbers and graphs on a piece of paper any day.
bradluke0
163 posts
 
Hi all ! I agree with everyone above except the 1st response . The way an amp is made (talking about the chassis and covers ) has alot to do with the way they sound also . Think a big , heavy amp does bass so well because of the sheer output power ? That is only part of it , the amps weight and thickness of its panels also add bass . Dont think so ? Take a 10 lb weight from your weight bench , wrap it in a towel ( to keep it from ringing ) and set it on your amp . Lower and tighter bass .
dtc's avatar
dtc
1,047 posts
 
What is really amazing is the human ear. The differences being discussed here are, electrically, pretty minor. But our ear hears them. Awesome engineering.
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
"The human ear is more sensitive than any measuring tool."

You sure you don't want to rethink this statement?
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
Why not just believe what you wish, but when you try to justify your beliefs it gets kind of silly. It's obvious that all the so-called analogies are not applicable. To try and discredit science in order to say one amp sounds BETTER than another, is just plain silly. The point is conceded, You can hear it all.
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