Music to test with:


I have found myself coming back to same of the same recordings when I buy/audition a new piece of equipment.
I really like Jennifer Warnes "Famous Blue Raincoat" The Cowboy Junkies "Trinity Sessions" both of those on CD and LP. The Bangles "Eternal Flame" Bob James "Touchdown" Al Jarreaus "Mornin'" and even the Carpenters "Make believe it's your First Time" I have also used Andrew Litton conducting Tchaikovskis 6th symphony.
There are many more recodings I like but I was wondering what you use when you are auditioning something new?
128x128nrchy
I think Buckingham is right on. That doesn't mean you can't become familiar with other recommendations. Fair warning, too much testing with your favorite music may make your favorite music less favorable.
Some favorites are:
Lyle Lovett: Joshua Judges especially tracks 3,4,6,8
Brian Bromberg: Wood, Awesome stand up bass and piano
Burmeister CD-III
Bobby Mcferrin: Beyond Words. Track 1 in particular

By the way I agree with Unsound. I can't tell you how many cd's I can't listen to anymore from over-use.
Anything by Celine Dion. If the rig makes it sound good it must be great.... buy it.

Sincerely,
I remain,
If I find a system that makes Celine Dion sound good I'll market it and get rich. Singers like her were the reason for scan buttons on the radio.
I forgot about the Lyle Lovett, I use several of his recordings too.
I don't buy or audition things often enough to get tired of my test material. At least not so far. I'm just wondering what I'm missing or should try next time.
...please spin on the Fifth Movement of Berlioz's "Symphonie fantastique!" You'll know when you hear it, if you got it all. Regards!
Also it doesn't make sense to me why would anybody test, or audition HIEND equipment with rock noise/music??