PRat: a DAC or transport thing?

Even a "somewhat poor" transport can be band-aided with a good DAC that re-clocks the incoming signal. This is not to say that there aren't differences between transports, but that a well designed DAC can somewhat alleviate those differences. Sean
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Sean

Not only is the presentation delivered harmonically rich i.e. full of overtones, but also with the right timing of delivery due to reduced signal loss and smearing. That is, the overtones retain the proper pitch and are delivered in step with that of the primary notes i.e. sound is produced in a cohesive manner across the audible spectrum

Sean what you are saying is the system exhibits linear phase and has reasonably extended frequency response (esp. preserving mid to high freq integrity) -- and, not least, excellent midbass. In particular, when you note, "sound (i.e. music) is (re)produced in a cohesive manner across the audible spectrum".

I would agree.
Although across the audible spectrum is asking for too much; lets say 45-18kHz?

Also, the speakers are well set up. No:)? Cheers

Sean and Gregm, in my experience PRaT can also be enhanced by slightly raising the midrange/midbass output. I have also a weird experience that after I inserted my very simple DIY unshielded S/PDIF digital interlink (that has an impedance that is far from the specified 75 Ohms I guess), there seems to be more PRaT and midrange fullness. I'm starting to believe that jitter also can improve PRaT (which is actually a contradictio in terminis)!

Chris

Chris sez:

in my experience PRaT can also be enhanced by slightly raising the midrange/midbass output

In mine too. Also Linn's. And Naim's to a certain extent. But it has to be "clear" rather than "muddy" sounding. Cheers

As Judge Potter Stewart said of pornography, "I shall not today attempt further to define the kinds of material I understand to be embraced . . . but I know it when I see it . . . "

PRAT is pretty much in this same elusive category. It's also a kind of holy grail that's only revealed once a number of problems have been resolved through both additive and subtractive effects. Once other problems are resolved, the most stubborn gating factor for most systems is probably the DAC/transport clock. Nuances of timing, pitch, and timbre are revealed in the reduction of treble smear and bass wooliness caused by even low levels of jitter. It's much easier to get PRAT from a vinyl source. I've had four different clocks in my CDP, as well as many other mods, and only the best clock will get your foot tapping.

Dave