So, a reviewer just said something I need to talk about.
I will not mention the reviewer, nor the specific equipment being reviewed, but this statement was made, talking about sax and strings: "the strings had real body, and it sounded like real strings being played". The tonality of the instruments was what he/she was talking about. I get this. The tone, the spatiality of the instruments, the stage that was presented. All well and good. What about the engagement between the listener and the musician. I have stated so many times here, ad nauseam, that the most important aspect of music listening, for me (and not enough with other listeners) is the "playing of the instruments". The artistry of the musician behind those strings. I just don’t get it. When I listen to Jeff Beck (RIP), using him as an example, what I am attracted to, FIRST & FOREMOST, is his PLAYING. Reviewers talk about "sound". Most people here talk about "sound". I spend more time now on other sites, that speak about the music playing and, the compositions. For whatever reasons, I seem to be realizing, that A’gon members, as so many reviewers, talk about sound. They very rarely mention MY most important aspect of listening. The musicianship and the compositions. Another rant from me. What are your thoughts on this? How do you listen? What do you listen for/to? What does your system convey to you? I know I am out of line again, but........My best to everyone. Always, MrD.
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@mike_in_nc +1 my man! @bolong, very honest and real. He was inviting them to hear his/their playing. @hilde45 "the ability to hear the strings and body of the violin creates a conduit to hear the musician, to resonate with their intent and emotion". As @mike_in_nc stated, not everyone is into the "music", but enjoy the sound. Interesting that I can so much enjoy hearing Sticky Fingers in my car, or on the pool deck, and experience as much musical enjoyment as when I am sitting in my sweet spot. What does this say about me? My system sucks?, I am deaf? Or I REALLY love the music. Some here, can only enjoy music through their system (main rig), and with only the best "sounding" recordings, ex. Chesky, RR, Sheffield, you get the point. Sad. And if you are one of them, that places " sound" 1st, Sad. Have a good day. Enjoy! MrD. |
I'm a bit confused when I read reviewers talk about gear that gets them 'tapping their toes'. To me, it's the MUSIC that will get me tapping my toes, just like it did when I was a teenager in the 60's with a handheld transistor radio. I had no problem at all moving to music; the gear isn't what made me do that. |
I love the music… the result, regardless of the skill of the musician. It inspires my subconscious and causes me to appreciate it. I have a relationship to the music not its creator. Some music is not musical or beautiful in a musical sense, but a musician showing off his skill… for instance how many notes he can cram into a unit of time. I remember when The Art of Noise came out with their first album… what a revelation. Music created with noises. When I go to the symphony, I go to listen to music… I close my eyes. Sure it is fun to watch the performers sometimes… but that is not why I am there. Many people go to see the performers, I understand. |
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