How to get the system sounding live?

Pedrillo, I feel your pain. It's sometimes tough to decide what type of presentation you prefer and of course that preference can vary even during the course of a listening session.

In my small-room system I had the VTL ST-85 tube amp playing into my Magnepans. It produces a very lively and dynamic sound. Recently, I hooked up a pair of the new Monarchy SE-200 MK2 solid-state amps and it's an interesting contrast. The VTL is more in-yer-face and just balls-to-the-wall dynamic, but the Monarchy's are a little more laid back, and very detailed. They throw a very nice layered soundstage.

Then, there is the complication that I can cause the VTL to sound more laid back depending on what cables I use. If I experiment, perhaps I can get the Monarchys to sound more dynamic. I may try different speaker wires.

Presently the Monarchy's are very easy on the ears and it's sometimes difficult for me to not doze off while listening to them. They are soothing and seductive. Yet now and then I want a bit more dynamic kick and outright slam.

Plato,
Difficult not to fall asleep? IMHO that is a very good thing!
I feel that if one's system is very good with the right music getting induced to sleep is actuaaly a good sign.
There were times I was at the concert hall and the music was just heavenly, then I woke up and had to return the next night. It was worth it both the concert and the sleep.
I bet that is one untapped market- sleeping centers that really got it right!

Pedrillo, you may have something there. After all, the word "music" inspires reverie. Back in the day with the Dynaco ST-400 amp, the Technics Turntable with Shure V15 series cartridge and AR-3A speakers so beguiling was the music that I would often doze off while listening. It's actually a very good way to relieve day-to-day stress.

Cheers!

listening psoition determines perspective. sit near the instruments and.....you know what to expect. sit further away and the perspective is different. its still live. so, both laid back and forward represent the live sound. it is a matter of choice.

Plato,
Yes I totally agree, stress relief is so important, in fact I am so happy with my system that I think I will stop looking for upgrades and start brewing beer. How's that for a secondary hobby and stress releif.
I brewed 15 years ago, and now that I found a great woman to acompany myself in the kitchen we just brewed our first batch last weekend, I wish all my audiophile friends lived closer for the homemade brew and great