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Two terms I don't understand - please explain

Hello...

I've read through this forum as well as forums on other sites and there are two (2) terms that I don't understand: "Slam" and "Prat" when discussing turntables, cartridges, etc.

Could someone kindly explain to this idiot what they actually describe?

Thanks and regards,

Jan
jsmoller
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
04-29-08: Rnm4 said:
"...Actually, my Naim Nait 3 was pratty with all sources, in a way previous amps were not, and in which my NAP140/NAC32.5 is, but my Scott 222c and Sherwood AM-7040 are not -- though I don't think that's a flaw in these latter, as I think Naim are (or were) designed with highlighting the prat-making bits of signal. Hey, it works, and is extremely exciting. As I said in my earlier post, PRaT can be introduced into a signal..."

Please explain how an amp alters either Pace, Rhythm or Time.

Dave
tobias
1,534 posts
 
I thought "slam" referred to midbass energy, and "PRaT" to speed stability. Clock jitter in a digital source affects PRaT, so that when you try to tap your toe to a jittery player you keep losing the beat. It's a weird experience the first time you notice it.
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
I'm really curious about those of us not able to tap their toes with a CD player. I have tons of play-along CDs from Music Minus One and Jamey Aebersold and this has never happened to me. What are some CDPs that that will exhibit this problem? I'd like to find one to see what you guys are talking about.

Dave
rnm4
308 posts
 
"Please explain how an amp alters either Pace, Rhythm or Time."

Thought I did that, to an extent. Another shot: having microdynamics that do not slur attack and decay.

But I'm no electrical engineer, so won't pretend to play that game.

Anyway, some amps -- Naim in particular -- are famous for having PRaT, and are even (with Linn Sondeks) the source of the whole concept. I think what PRaT refers to is essentially pegged to whatever it is they do that people identified in the sound and called "PRaT. Not sure what it exactly is, or what they do that accounts for it, but whatever it is, it's PRaT", and Naim amps do it. Krells and CJs, in comparison, I gather, don't.
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
04-29-08: Rnm4 said:
""Please explain how an amp alters either Pace, Rhythm or Time."

Thought I did that, to an extent. Another shot: having microdynamics that do not slur attack and decay."

Ok, so we agree, it's about dynamics, not Pace or Rhythm or Time, right? That's my whole point. People call it PRaT when it's really dynamics.

Dave
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