On evaluating speakers?

Pedrillo, I understand your points, but it still would be easier to take an SACD disc to the dealer. However, if you think it's worthwhile to spend $1,200 on the recorder and are willing to take the time to do your own recordings, then let us know how it turns out. On paper, the Korg is an amazing piece of machinery.

I've got the Korg. It's an incredible consumer-level recorder, with 130dB of dynamic range. I've recorded my own D2D recordings with it and can't tell the Korg from the vinyl. In fact, thanks to the lack of sensitivity to feedback, you can play the Korg way, way louder with no concern.

I've compared interconnects easily with the Korg. It'd also be a valid way to compare turntables and cartridges and other front end equipment. However, for comparing speakers it'll be useless, because even the very best mic technique cannot easily be replicated for two different speaker systems.

There is a problem with the Korg. The input and output stages are low quality and add noise. When there's program material the noise level is low enough that it's not a problem. I'm waiting to archive my D2D collection until after I have the input and output stages modded by Ric Schultz and some shielding added. But for this weakness, it's an amazing unit.

Dave

Dcstep,
Glad to hear you are enjoying it!
Can you elaborate on what you meant when you said a valid way of comparing tt and cartridges?
On evaluating speakers I beg to differ, if you have a record that you like very much on your spectacular turntable, why wouldn't it make a good source to use in comparing speakers? There are so many pressings from 50's and 60's that sound far better than recent cd releases. Put that on your Korg and you have an excellent gauge.

Onhwy61, I've got a great vinyl setup and plenty of good D2D recordings and hi rez vinyl, but I think that DVD-A and SACD is as good, when well done.

Pedrillo,

Maybe I misunderstood your proposed use of the Korg. If you mean that you'd record a great D2D recording and then carry the Korg around to various stores to use as a source to compare different speakers in different stores, then yes, I's fantastic for that. I recorded some great big band, organ and other high dynamic recording and took it to a dealer to hear the Vienna Acoustic Mahler speakers flap my pants leg to great effect.

My dealer had a great TT, but you didn't have to worry about that with the Korg. You simply plug it into a line pre-amp and push Play.

I thought you were talking about recording speakers. I don't think that'd work because of the difficulties of recording different speakers in different venues.

You'll be able to use LPs that you're very familiar with. OTOH, you might get a few really good SACDs (Chesky has several and then familiarize yourself at home. An Oppo universal SACD is only 20% the cost of the Kore). Any good dealer will be able to play SACD.

Dave