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Soundstage...How to determine what's right?

Have started upgrading my system and will be trying to optimize the soundstage. A lot of reading has me thinking that I really don't have enough information and experience to get there.
Terms like "congestion, width, depth, and height" have me wondering how much is in the recording and how much is introduced by the system? Are there reference type cd's that people use to determine how their system is progressing? I so, could you help with a list of cuts with info regarding the placement of vocals, instruments and examples that contain material that is not congested?
Thanks for any help.
Steve
scoly1
scoly1 OP
74 posts
 
Just what I was looking for. Thanks so much for the info. May just start with the opus 3 and see what I can accomplish.
thanks
Steve
rodman99999
6,129 posts
 
I've found the 'Chesky Records Jazz Sampler and Audiophile Test Compact Disc Vol. 1' a valuable tool with regards to properly setting up my listening environment. It contains tests that will reveal imaging problems, and the depth (or lack of) sound stage in your system/room combination. Are you working with tubed or solid state gear? I won't entertain any arguments in here, but- solid state has been largely found lacking in depth of soundstage until a certain dollar point is achieved(big bucks).
rleff
1,065 posts
 
I second the chesky recommendation; It will explain each audiophile term and then give you a example to listen to;this is a very good cd to use for evaluation of your entire system.
mrmb's avatar
mrmb
299 posts
 
I have both CD's mentioned by Rodman and they are good ones!

Additionally another good Chesky CD is: The Ultimate Demonstration Disc: "Guide to Critical Listening". It contains some wonderful music. More importantly however, each musical track was chosen for its ability to convey transparency, midrange purity, imaging etc., and each includes a preface track, verbally defining what you should be listening for/hearing....
scoly1 OP
74 posts
 
More to look at. Thanks again. Looks like a person could spend a fortune just for demo disc. Will have to narrow it down to one or two. Any chance of getting thoughts on the best two or is that to personal a decision?
All solid state. Haven't ventured into tubes though have been tempted. Read so much about the sound of tubes. Afraid that if I slip into that I might not find my way back.
Thanks again,
Steve
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