Words from the Wise -Part 2

My list begins with things that cause listener fatigue and are cause for dismissing the audition as a failure...
1 - unpleasant high frequency hash, ring, or sizzle.
2 - annoying mid-range glare.
3 - muddy lower midrange and upper bass.

If these are not heard during the audition...
4 - I listen for musicality, soundstage and overall presentation. I also grade highly on accurate dynamics: many systems over-emphasize and come off aggressive while others are restrictive and uninvolving.
5 - Next, I ask myself Does this component have a sound? If it imparts a particular sound, this is generally my first, and lasting, impression.
6 - Finally - I take note of 2 additional things: is any type of power filter used? and is any resonance control in place? For example, many systems I have seen are spiked rather poorly on carpeted floors. This can smooth out many HF problems and exaggerate the bass.

Also, I try not to be too overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) emotionally because there are many things which go into the overall sound of a system. Two listening sessions several days apart a far better than one extended session.

1. Do not listen to components as isolated units. Learn what combinations work well together and why. Great plant combinations, not great plants make the truly unforgettable garden.

2. Remember that there is no right answer, just what you are prepared to work at. Have a goal for your system. No one system will work equally well on all types of music.

3. Always do your listening with recordings you know extremely well. The novelty of new music will cloud your judgement.

4. Establish listening criteria and take notes. Otherwise you will remember only how you felt after listening.

5. Well built equipment is beautiful. Build something beautiful.