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System synergies: Chaotic or predictable?

When speaking of system "synergies", do you consider these to be chaotic? or are they a predictable sum of the character of the components?  I'm surprised at people who think they can predict the sound of a system from their perceptions of the components (derived, in turn, from other system combinations), and even more surprised and suspicious of the 'tone control' approach to purchasing cables and amplifiers suggested by another forum member (who does happen to be a dealer). 

I think these two views are contradictory. If we think that components have 'magical' synergies beyond our ability to measure, then it seems unlikely that we also can predict how combinations of components will sound.

ahofer
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
In the world of audio the term "synergy" often seems magical like no one could have seen it coming.  But where do you draw the line between magical synergy and just reasonable component pairing looking at factors such as gain, pre & amp impedance matching, using more sensitive/easier to drive speakers with tubes etc?  
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,636 posts
 
Three easy pieces 

It is really simple select the speakers first based on physical size, finish, spl desired, bass output, efficiency, price.

Then select electronics to go with speakers some speakers are great with tubes usually horns, some speakers require massive current ie big solid state.

Then digital to flavor system some dacs are bright others are warm.

Cables are then auditioned to bring out what you are looking to compliment.

Cables have a sound or highlight certain freq. 

Simple really the issue is the myriad of choices and combos possible.

Sometimes you have to audition a lot of combos before you strike gold.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
@audiotroy 

That is precisely my point.  You've described sensible approach to system matching.  Using sensible parameters and approaches seems neither chaotic nor somehow imparting magical synergy - it's simply sensible.
ahofer OP
225 posts
 
I agree that is an eminently sensible approach to start with the speakers.  The "striking gold" part is inconsistent, however, with the rest, which was the point of the OP.

I know this isn't the forum where people want to discuss this, but the frequency response of your cables better be flat, or your cable is defective.  Fortunately most are, to a nearly perfect null test with one another.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,384 posts
 
That's why all my electronics are from the same manufacturer.
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