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Negative feedback Amp=more faithful reproduction?

Negative feedback (NFB) vs zero negative feedback (ZNFB). There seems to be unsubstantiated contention that ZNFB amps sound more realistic. I know this is an age old debate favoring the ZNFB design, but I think most audiophiles have never bothered to look into this matter and believe the advertisements and proponents of zero NFB design. I have been in that camp until recently. My own experience and research into articles on this matter leads to me believe NFB is needed for faithful reproduction of music. I'm not saying NFB design is more "musical", which is a highly subjective term and usually means more euphonic or colored. I've posted a similar question awhile back, but I was hoping we can have a more evidence based discussion on this matter. Perhaps, we need clarification of descriptive terms we use to describe sound. My contention is, in general, NFB designs produces a more accurate or faithful reproduction of music than ZNFB designs. Here is a very good article on feedback and distortion:

http://sound.westhost.com/articles/distortion+fb.htm
dracule1
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edwyun
244 posts
 
Dracule1:
So you are looking for a technical explanation as to why you like and find more realistic your amp with NFB than with ZNFB?

I believe the technical explanation is in the article you provided a link to in your OP. Some may agree, others may disagree. I have read that article and others from the author. Some things I agree with and others I do not. He also states that there has been great disagreement on the issue. So why would you expect anything less?

If you agree with the article then fine. That's all there is to it.
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edwyun
244 posts
 
Well then it appears that your particular amp needed NFB to begin with.
dracule1 OP
1,085 posts
 
The degree of feedback needed is dependent on speaker that is driving. You make a valid point. The designer purposefully built feedback into the amp.

I don't necessarily understand the article fully as my technical knowledge is limited, but I can recognize a well thought out article when I see it. I wanted start a discussion on this subject, and see what others had to say. Like I said, this seems to be the wrong forum. Many here are subjectivists and do not care about objective analysis.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Mt10425 and others have given very thoughtful answers and points of view. Dracule,you say you are`nt seeking validation but you responses suggest otherwise.There is no technical explanation to support your position,it`s simply your own preference as to what sound you happen to like.There`s no objective determination to seek in subjective issues as this is.Regardless of what forum or subject heading you choose to post on, the results/replies won`t change.You prefer the sound of NFB amps for the reasons you cite, it`s nothing more or less than that.Being condescending(as though you`ve seen the light now and other have`nt) to those who prefer a sound different from what you consider to be right or more"accurate" is pointless.Mt10425 is`nt off topic at all.
Regards,
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,368 posts
 
That is a very informative article as are many of the replies, as usual.

Only thing of value I can think to add is yes, practically, it is how the whole system functions together that matters, not specific design paradigms applied to specific components. There are many ways to skin a cat. That phrase could never be more true than it is regarding the details of ways to deliver quality sound reproduction. Each will chose their preferred solution. VEndors will obviously also chose their approach and any vendor worth their salt will believe in their approach 110%. CEtain design approaches that are more unique or innovative, like no NF and one of my personal favorites, Walsh drivers, done well, help to make certain vendors stick out in the pack, which is important if you are in a business for the long haul.

When someone comes up with the undisputed mathematical equation for why I like what I like, please let me know! I am waiting patiently.....
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