What are your top songs that you use to evaluate a new high end purchase ?


When I bring home a piece to evaluate ( I only evaluate at home, or another household ), I have a handful of  recordings ( songs actually ) I specifically listen to ( keeping in mind warm up time / break in time ) for the new piece, as I know, and enjoy, these selections ( on CD ). Rolling Stones : Under My Thumb > Sway > Wild Horses > Can't You Hear Me Knock'in ( Maybe another or 2 ). SRV : Tin Pan Alley. Led Zep : When the Levee Breaks > Stairway To Heaven. Sarah Vaughnn : All of Me. Sheffield Drum Record > The solos. Allman Brothers ( at the Fillmore East ) One Way Out. Blind Faith : Do what you like. I estimate this about 1 1/2 hour.  At this point, I usually know if I like it. If I do not like it, I would know much sooner. Enjoy ! MrD.
mrdecibel
And not to neglect classical: the last movement of Mahler's First Symphony - Ozawa and the BSO on DG! The last movement of St.Saens Symphony 3 - Barenboim and the CSO on DG! Both of these will really give any system a workout dynamic-range wise. Play them LOUD!
Jazz: "It's About Time" from Miles' In A Silent Way! And "Miles Runs The Voodoo Down" from Bitches Brew!