What is the most challenging music to play on a stereo?


If you really wanted to test the ability of a stereo, what type of music would you choose?

cdc

In general I'd say Classical  but more specifically  

Dvorak's  Symphony #5. " From The New World "

and or Beethoven's Piano Concertos .  

Topic follow-up...

Last Sunday, sat Row 3 Center --- at nearby Bowdoin College Concert Band concert...40+ musicians at full roar...band, not an orchestra...no drawn strings involved.  I officially surrender to the futile concept of ever experiencing THAT dynamic in my small studio!  That said, THIS Thursday, I will be meeting two longtime friends who both prefer large horn systems near Boston: 

Steve, in Hudson Valley, NY, spins uber vinyl...mono, two channel plus surround in the beautifully-thought-out, converted dedicated music space of his converted winery Guest house garage.  Jeff, our experienced Host in Massachusetts, has done DIY for decades, and has written audio reviews.  He also spins vinyl into large DIY horns and subwoofers and sports many years of subwoofer expertise.  Along with Steve, this will be my first visit.

Let' see how a well-designed large horn system matches the shuddering, rumbling gut-punch of Sunday's experience?  And yes, Karen Sumner (see above) ..."the sound system's ability to reveal the finer musical details of the performance, the sound of the instruments, the venue, are far more relevant to creating a fulfilling musical experience than analyzing specific sonic qualities."  ...well stated, Karen.  And ya, I did close my eyes as I often do in my little studio.           

...planning to report back       (bold print for old eyes)            More Peace!         Pin

As with this hobby there are all differing opinions so here’s mine…. The hardest music to play is the music you love and are familiar with.  You build and tweak your system to make the stuff you love sound the best.  And if you’re like me with a wide palette it’s near impossible to achieve the best of everything. 

@edcyn 

thanks so much for that explanation.  Totally makes sense and gives me more appreciation to listening for details with piano playback in my system.  I also have to add that playing at the proper volume would get you closer to realism, just don’t overload the room.  This discussion is quite interesting with everyone’s feedback and vast knowledge and experience.