My reference is live music, not a system.
What is a "reference" system?
OK, most of us have an audio system, mine even works some of the time. But I see that some members have "reference" systems. This has to be better than the assorted junk that I have piled together. Probably a lot better than your rig as well.
But really, what distinguishes these folks "reference" systems from the pedestrian systems that the rest of us have? There must be something, or they could just save the keyboard time and drop the word when discussing their gear. And I am not referring to reviewers, that is a different story and one to examine more carefully in the future.
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A ‘Reference’ system has nothing to do with being the “best”, it states a system you are familiar with. A lot of manufacturers put ‘reference’ in the name of the product to try to boost sales. Just like ‘Signature’, what does that mean in reference to sq? Would you buy a component just because it states reference or signature? |
My belief is "reference" implies one has more than one system, and the "reference" is the best one. That may be the most familiar, or most revealing system. If one has only one system then that must be their reference system, regardless of price or sound quality. Yes, I also do think it is ridiculous- seems like bragging to me. Would a reviewer test a product without putting it in the "reference system"? Obviously not, so why then explain to readers at the onset of the review it was tested in the "reference system" ? Simply list the other components in the system it was used with.
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Good point by @rbstehno Would you buy a Marantz reference series component? I have moved on from that many years ago. Their sound was always restrained, not engaging enough, making it very difficult to be able to evaluate the complexities of music sounds and their projection. You really need to lift the veil before you can use a system as "reference" imo. |
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