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What music do you use to assess your system?

I'm looking for music that will reveal shortcomings or strengths within ones system. Lets list some of our favorite songs that have: good, fluctuating bass lines, songs that have a solid, centerd vocal, songs that are super complex with alot going on, songs that test tone, songs that test inner and micro detail, songs that test how well a speaker can convey dynamic swing, and any other aspects I didn't mention.

Of course I'm not looking for one song that covers all areas, I'm fine with one song only covering one aspect.

When listing songs, please include what we are looking for in that particular song!
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rhanson739
269 posts
 
+1 for Graceland.

No matter when it was released...
ptss
1,964 posts
 
A well miked acoustic guitar trio can be revealing. Tones, dynamics, location. 3 distinct guitars, different strings, different styles.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,843 posts
 
Whatever is in heavy rotation at the time. If a new component is introduced in my system, whatever music I'm very familiar with (usually 6-10 CDs worth) at the time is used to evaluate. If I'm impressed, I'll dig deeper into my collection and dig up some really old stuff to see how it holds up.

All the best,
Nonoise
rhanson739
269 posts
 
Ptss brings up a good suggestion. Try California Guitar Trio.
zavato's avatar
zavato
1,403 posts
 
Peter, 85, 86, so my memory is shot. At least I didn't say I've used it since 1976! Sounds great on my INT-150 you sold to me- It has been my 'go to' album for many years for a few reasons. I like the album, it seems to be well recorded, and my familiarity with it makes it ideal for auditioning equipment.

PS- now that I think of it, I know I didn't use Graceland when I bought gear in 1985- the year I got married-

Once again, and as I've come to learn, Peter is always right
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