PRat: a DAC or transport thing?

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

sean, i proably ignore this aspect of recorded music, as i tend to concentradte on timbre and tonal balance.

i believe it is a term which applies only to recorded music.

i tend to think in terms of live music and try to relate to recorded music as if it were live.

Gregm: Yes, i would venture to say that phase linearity is a good portion of what contributes to "PRAT". As Dazzdax also added, an added bit of "warmth" can sometimes help this out too. As Dgarretson also pointed out, when things are right, your toes are tapping. The system is singing and you can't help but get into the groove. This is a natural reaction to music, whether it is live or recorded.

In that respect, i have to ask Mrtennis how often he finds himself wanting to tap his toes, bang on drums or play air guitar when listening to various systems / components? After all, the more intensely that the music draws you in, the more of the "you are there" effect you experience. You are no longer just hearing recorded notes, but jamming tunes to the extent thatyou can easily visual and share in the energy of the performers playing their hearts out. Sean
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