Low volume music

I was chasing low volume wholeness for a long time. My startling success came with the purchase of my current speakers powered by either a linear solid state or switching amplifiers. The mechanical noise from my tube amplifier becomes distracting if it's a really quiet time of the day.

All the amplifiers provide a full bodied presentation at low volume but I would say the switching amps sound the fullest. In my system/room the Eidolons get 98% of the credit for the improvement in quality low volume presentation and not the electronics.

ESL & tubes

HP once noted that speakers also have signal to noise ratios, but one rarely sees any specs on the subject. This remark was made during a review of the Pristine ESL (Soundlab). The ESL's which I have had always struck me as very quiet - perfect for late night listening. Tube amps also helped, but only if the transformers did not buzz (a very common problem).

I don't know why in general, successful reproduction at low levels, is'nt a clear priority in assessing a system. Reviewers talk of neutrality, dynamics etc, but never low volumes. To many people, it is a real priority, we have families and neighbours to consider. I happen to agree about about tubes and relatively efficient speakers with flat impedence. Big SS amps and low efficiency multi driver speakers, seem to get going at higher volumes. I think though that most systems will shrink the soundstage at low volumes and lose some dynamics.