2. amps-preamps
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Silky and soft highs: product of coloration?

Hi folks this is a bit controversial topic. I know some amplifiers (and some very expensive ones too!) have a very silky and soft presentation of the (upper) treble. I'm wondering if this silky presentation can be considered as a hallmark of quality for amplifiers or rather a sort of coloration that makes the upper treble soft and "pretty". In my opinion I can divide amplifiers in two groups: one group (the largest) with "ordinary" treble response (not very pretty) and the other group that consists of only a handful of amplifiers (both solid state and tube) with a refined and silky treble. The contenders within this last group are alas too expensive for mere mortals. This brings me to another question: is such a refined and silky treble only to be had with megabuck amplifiers?
I consider the Anne-Sophie Mutter recording "Carmen Fantasie" as the ultimate test recording for treble sweetness. If the amplifier sounds just "ordinary" with this recording (especially where the violin plays in the upper register) then the amplifier is not "refined" enough.

Chris
dazzdax
dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
The reason why people are thinking that you shouldn't spend that much money on power amplifiers is: they have never heard how world's best power amplifiers sound! 90% of the amplifiers sound the same, that's why it will never become obvious with 90% of all audiophiles that the power amplifier is in fact a major determinant for the final sound quality. In this regards I would like to address to some of the world's best amplifiers, like FM Acoustics, Soulution, Boulder, Rey Audio, DartZeel(?), LAMM, Cello Performance, Audio Research REF600, etc.

Chris
cyclonicman
693 posts
 
The amp is only one link in a system's synergy. I agree with Jaybo's points and in addition I have found that the cabling being used also has a prominent role in a system's sound quality.
rodman99999
6,035 posts
 
As stated: The ideal amplifier will simply pass what it is fed without any change whatever, only adding gain. Those amps truly are rare, but- extemely important to those that WANT to hear exactly what is recorded. YES- everything in the reproduction chain is important. Many recordings have been poorly engineered/mastered/pressed on inferior materials. I very much prefer to hear what's on the media, than have it covered up by rose colored glasses. I always prefer the truth(whether from people or my system), even if it is uncomfortable. If the drummer uses silky Zildjian cymbals, or brassy Sabians: I want my system to be a able to resolve the difference. Happily: it's highly resolving from top to bottom. Of course: What you enjoy in your listening room is your business, and who's to say you're wrong in what you enjoy?
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
no component is perfect. an experienced listener will detect coloration after spending sufficient time with any stereo system.

the only question is : what flavor do you want ?

since coloration is unavoidable, it is best to accept its existence as fact and deal with it.
nilthepill
842 posts
 
100% agreed Mrtennis!
Even so called best of the superamps/components are colored. It is questions of how much at which freq range and if this is accepatble to you or not.

For this reason one's best amp could the other's way at the bottom of his list.
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