Low Level Listening and Distortion
Would some amps sound better at lower levels due to distortion being produced at a lower sound level than another? In other words, a "clean" sounding amp (think stereotypical class D) sounds better to me at higher volumes while another amp sounds much louder than the class D at higher levels but great at lower levels, which I assume is our ears translating distortion into "louder" in our heads. Is it the job of a preamp to be sure the amp sounds the same at all levels or is this just impossible to make the sound that linear? I have one of the newest GaNFET amps from a well-respected designer/manufacturer playing at the moment and it sounds boring at low levels but good at higher levels. Not surprisingly it also sounds quieter at the same matched volume levels (using white noise) than the tube amps I also have. I hope I explained my question so it can be understood. Thanks.
“Speak up. I can’t you over my loud system.” 👍😊👏 @atmasphere I agree, really good systems can also play loud and not be fatiguing; blackness in between the sounds, low distortion… so not adding sound pressure to your eardrums that are non-music. I believe this also drops the SPL… not having all the extra noice in there. |
Just now, listening average mid 60s db. Normally mid to high 70s. Quite engaging making it difficult to write this post. Imaging and soundstage are right on. And, in a way, drawing me into the music more than louder. Class D GANfet AGD Audions. “Complete” sound with very low, inaudible distortion. Think the lower volume is suited to the current content-C, S & N. Thanks for this thread. Maybe the lower volume will continue to engage. It is more relaxing.
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I listen to music at just about every level as I'm a believer that all music has a proper level which goes beyond anyone's taste in volume. A small amount of that is dictated by the recording itself as opposed to the actual music. Try blasting Simon & Garfunkel some time, it doesn't work for me. Nor does listening to DSOTM at anything but full blast. I'm listening to Billie Eilish - Happier Than Ever - Not My Responsibility and the SPL was 63-69 which is kinda loud but correct. What say you? Regards, barts |
