What music do you use to assess your system?


I'm looking for music that will reveal shortcomings or strengths within ones system. Lets list some of our favorite songs that have: good, fluctuating bass lines, songs that have a solid, centerd vocal, songs that are super complex with alot going on, songs that test tone, songs that test inner and micro detail, songs that test how well a speaker can convey dynamic swing, and any other aspects I didn't mention.

Of course I'm not looking for one song that covers all areas, I'm fine with one song only covering one aspect.

When listing songs, please include what we are looking for in that particular song!
128x128b_limo
A well miked acoustic guitar trio can be revealing. Tones, dynamics, location. 3 distinct guitars, different strings, different styles.
Whatever is in heavy rotation at the time. If a new component is introduced in my system, whatever music I'm very familiar with (usually 6-10 CDs worth) at the time is used to evaluate. If I'm impressed, I'll dig deeper into my collection and dig up some really old stuff to see how it holds up.

All the best,
Nonoise
Peter, 85, 86, so my memory is shot. At least I didn't say I've used it since 1976! Sounds great on my INT-150 you sold to me- It has been my 'go to' album for many years for a few reasons. I like the album, it seems to be well recorded, and my familiarity with it makes it ideal for auditioning equipment.

PS- now that I think of it, I know I didn't use Graceland when I bought gear in 1985- the year I got married-

Once again, and as I've come to learn, Peter is always right
Here's some more I use-

Dave Gruin- Discovered Again, Sheffield Lab D to D (Lab 5) I know for a fact I've been listening to that since the 70's

Donald Fagen- The Nightfly- the album is fun and contains some excellent spatial cues