Audio Science Review = "The better the measurement, the better the sound" philosophy

@amir_asr Either you are or are not the owner of ASR. Either way, my conclusion is based on listening results after measurement (if it can be measured-the CD trimmer can measure some characteristics prior to and post trimming by listening to the CD). Since I do not rely on measurements only, I (and all of my many music loving friends) use my listening skills to determine if audio equipment sounds more or less to my liking. Measurements can be very deceiving both in what is and what is not measured as well as the potential synergy with other equipment and listening room.

The best test of audio equipment is to place it in the room and with the equipment it is to be used with. Aside from that, measurements and physical inspection of audio equipment can provide a basis for comparison and evaluation (such as will it more or less likely to fail in use). It goes without comment that different power ratings of amps and bass capabilities of speakers vary by design and parts quality which can result in lower or higher cost to manufacture.  Unfortunately, just as with so many other products (non-audio) on the market, you don't always receive what one pays for.  There are many shoddy expensive goods in many product categories.  That does not mean everything deemed "too" expensive is bad.  

ASR "militia" cannot differentiate the difference between biographical summary of one’s music expertise versus self-aggrandizement I am no more important than any other audiophile; however, music experience as an amateur recording engineer in major orchestral halls of well over 250 recordings and for the Erich Zeisl (brother in law of Schoenberg) centenary collection of 11 CDs for Vienna, UCLA and USC establish some credentials that my opinion in how vocal, chamber and orchestral music can (not should) sound is evident. I do not have a "golden ear." I just have a lifetime of experience performing and recording/mastering music.

When I conclude that each individual should not rely on measurements only, I am asserting that each piece of equipment should be tested for it’s musical value (not economic) in a specific room with specific equipment. ASR members laugh at anything outside of their sphere of experience and make derogatory remarks of someone’s character if they disagree with neutral statements concerning equipment or experience. If that is you Amir, owner of ASR, you know this to be true.

amir I guess you never heard the phrase you get what you pay for, of course there are exceptions to the rule, but in my experience the phrase is generally true.

@decooney , I was not even aware of Soulnote. Seems to be focused in Europe.

@fleschler sometimes it is better to move on and not have the urge to respond. Hope you are having a great time with your music!

@invalid BINGO!!!

I was a commercial property appraiser (to be distinguished from residential) for 32 years, constructed apartment buildings and single family tract homes.  I chose/use higher quality materials in low income housing to prevent future repair expenses and the safety of my tenants.  I use higher quality all brass plumbing fixtures and fittings,  only schedule L US or Mexican manufactured copper plumbing and best quality fittings, Bradford-White water heaters, Wilkins water pressure regulators, etc. as an example.  Sure, Loews has cheaper plumbing items, but you get what you pay for-expect plumbing failures sooner (a few years) rather than in decades later (w.h. exceptions since they only last 6 years now).  

@milpai  Every night I get to listen to music for 2 hours prior to bedtime.  Yesterday, I listened with friends for 4 hours.   My main audio system is so addictive and I have 42,500 LPs/CD/78s that I look forward to listening whenever I have a chance.  I am retired from my profession and only work about 20 hours weekly as an investor/manager.  I also take care of my family until it's music listening time late at night.  

I had some time to see my forum posts today so I added rejoiners.  My other forums over the past 20+ years only received no or up to four replies.   I obviously hit a nerve and this forum is probably the most popular of September.   I am concerned that ASR may have a physically violent "militia" although it is more likely that they just have much free time and personal angst they have to relieve themselves by posting on ASR, so often and often negatively.