2. amps-preamps
  3. 1361205949

Non-feedback amplification topology and frequency

Is it true that non-feedback topology amplification is prone to frequency limitations if not matched with the absolute perfect speaker system?
I'm trying grasp how to get a flat sound from my very much loved new PL5. I have resorted to EQ, that never mentioned term on these forum, to bring back the ultra-highs of cymbals and bells etc. I've also rolled the pre-tubes and switched out my ICs. Still very much a frown freq graph.
I'm willing to get new speakers to help this amp deliver on its promises. Focal seem nicely high in sensitivity.
jmacinnis
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,865 posts
 
"Ultimately you have to be more careful of your speaker choice; this is doubly important because a speaker that requires the amp to have feedback will never be able to sound like real music- it will at best sound like a good hifi."

Absolute statements like this are bound to hit some nerves. That's what helps create discussion, which is usually where a more complete story might become apparent.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,615 posts
 
Mapman, they do, but even in high end audio we have to deal with facts occasionally :)

The reason I made that comment is that an amplifier that violates one of the most fundamental rules of human hearing will never sound like real music. Its not so much the failing of the speaker as it is the amp.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,865 posts
 
"The reason I made that comment is that an amplifier that violates one of the most fundamental rules of human hearing will never sound like real music."

Is it really so black and white in practice though which designs truly "violate the rule" and that use of NF means a violation in all cases?

I would think it more shades of grey with the devil being in the details: the relative magnitude of the violation (which varies and should be measurable) and at what point the "fundamental rule" is "violated".
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,615 posts
 
It really is that black and white. Sort of like being pregnant.

What is poorly understood is our ears are so sensitive to odd orders that we can hear things that cannot be measured. So it might look 'OK' on paper and our ears say something else.

And there is nothing we can do about it. Our ears are the product of millions of years of evolution. Its not going to change just to suit our inadequacies of design.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,865 posts
 
Well, at least paper should be able to disqualify the big offenders. THen it is left up to our ears, which I agree with 100%. And and over the years, my ears tell me there is more to it than meets the eye here.... ie it is NOT so black and white. That is definitely the case if it cannot be measured. A "leap of faith" is required to reach the conclusion in lieu of supporting data. So goes high end audio.....
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