2. amps-preamps
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Is it possible to have too much/too many filters/tweaks?

Hi All,

So, we all know there are endless tweaks available to enhance our systems and get us that much closer to our audio nirvana. I have personally come across a few that are actual difference makers. But it got me thinking, is it possible that too many tweaks are actually counterproductive to what we are aiming for? For example, my main system (double duty for listening/HT) I have everything (except my 5-channel power amp) plugged into a Furman Elite 20PFi conditioner. In addition, I have a Puron AC plugged into my Furman (this one actually blew me away at how drastically it reduced background noise-legit), I also have a whole house surge protector. I have also installed an iFi Lan iSilencer between my TP-Link Powerline Ethernet Adapter and streamer. In addition, I have an ADD Powr Symphony between my streamer and DAC (another legit difference maker).

Now I just came across the iFi iPurifier 2 and was thinking of pulling the trigger. Then it occurs to me, is it possible to have too many filters/tweaks that it actually taints/diminishes the sound? How far/how much is too much, is there such a thing? Thoughts?

kingbr
larryi
4,018 posts
 

Yes.  If something actually does alter the sound, it has the capacity to alter the sound in a way you might not like.  It is not always the case that certain things one seeks to reduce, such as resonance, is bad at any level such that less is an improvement.  One can go too far in that direction.  I heard a demonstration of various platforms made by a particular company that were placed under a CD player.  The lowest level platform did a very good job of improving the sound as compared to the stock shelf that came with the equipment rack.  The next level up platform made a small improvement over the company's entry level platform.  The all out maximum resonance draining platform was simply too much--the sound became thin, analytical and harmonically thread bare; even the manufacturers representative agreed that it was too much in this particular case.

ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,486 posts
 

Yes, I have been through countless "tweaks", most did nothing, some did maybe something +/-, and a few are great! And mixing them can be a crapshoot.

I guess that is why you should try them if interested, you just never know. There are some very creative minds.

ozzy

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,283 posts
 

Time to mention the #1 Class A tweak: Cup your hands behind your ears. Instant Class A amp sound! Very energy efficient!  How did they do that?

larryi
4,018 posts
 

Someone once sold ear extenders that gave the wearer Dumbo ears that supposedly improved the listening experience.  While it may have improved the sound, it probably did not help with getting a second date.

sgordon1
435 posts
 

Sometimes “less” is “more.”  You hear how tweaks interact, by living with them over time.  When you have listened enough to be familiar with the resulting sound, challenge your ears by removing or repositioning a tweak.  The possibilities are endless.  This exercise can also work when you are getting the itch to spend more money… frequently we can learn to improve the sound, and be content with the pieces we already have.  The problem is that many are inclined to “throw money at a problem;” this may take less time and effort, but there is no assurance of success… is there?

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