Stereophile Article - Holt telling it like it is.

hi shadorne:

back in 1967 my stereo system consisted of 2 pair of stacked quads, 4 mono quad tube amps, a mac c22 a thorens turn table and ortofon cartridge. the total cost of the stereo system was less than $3000.

i dare say i have not heard a stereo system i have heard in the last 5 years that i prefer to what i owned in 1967.

at todays dollars, i suppose this stereo system might cost $30,000 plus today. it is to my ears a reference system which is unsurpassed. i suspect there are many other stereo systems that were configured during the 60's and 70's that are far superior to many of todays so-called high quality components.

I had a choke fit reading this quote from Mrtennis

"in my opinion the sound of the early 70's is superior to what is available today. back then, there were great electrostatic speakers, tube amps and preamps and no digital."

I really don't know what to say...... maybe just that no arguing will do any good.

$3000 in 1967 dollars is about $18,000 today. I don't have that much invested today.

Dave

hi muralman1:

i infer from your post that you disagree strongly with my opinion. it is my contention that most current production components are not very good.

if two stereo systems are assembled in the same room, namely the one i previously mentioned and any one of your choice. there is no doubt that i would prefer the vintage system, in a blindfold test. this does not mean either stereo is superior or inferior in an absolute sense, but, rather i prefer a more classic tube sound and quad 57 speakers, to anything currently available today.

one man's treasure may be another man's trash.

i respect modern designs. i just don't like them.

as you said, there is no arguing. there is listening and taste.

MrTennis, I like your steadfast ways. I can honestly say I could happily share a glass of your favorite with you listening to either of our systems.

A toast to you!