Which is more accurate: digital or vinyl?


More accurate, mind you, not better sounding. We've all agreed on that one already, right?

How about more precise?

Any metrics or quantitative facts to support your case is appreciated.
128x128mapman

Which is more accurate, digital or vinyl; was the question. Although the question implied CD, it was not implicitly stated. Computers operate in the digital realm.

While the CD was inferior to the LP, when the LP was transferred to the "digital" realm of the computer; the analog playback came back completely intact including "nuance" and record noise; therefore, one has to ask "Which digital are you referring to?"
01-31-12: Orpheus10
In addition, harmonics are always presented as a lower frequency affecting a higher frequency, but never how higher frequencies affect lower frequencies. I'm saying these higher, inaudible frequencies affect lower frequencies. Can anyone shed light on that.
I'm not sure I understand the question. The character of what we hear is a function of the combination of fundamental frequencies, harmonics, and broadband spectral components that are present at any given time.

As Learsfool and I stated, seemingly credible studies have indicated that frequencies that are significantly above 20 kHz can be sensed under some circumstances, particularly if lower frequencies are simultaneously present.
02-01-12: Orpheus10
When CD's came out, I bought them to hear the same music I had on LP, only better. One CD in particular was inferior to the LP, it lacked "nuance"; and as jazz lovers know "nuance" is everything.

I down loaded this LP to my computer, and on playback all the "nuance" was there; complete with record noise. What do you make of that?
Orpheus, an obvious question: What makes you assume that the CD and the LP were mastered identically?

Frogman, thanks very much the kind comment in your post of 1-26.

Regards,
-- Al
My point was, that the computer, which is digital; reproduced the LP as good as any TT I've ever heard, as a matter of fact it was identical. When comparing the CD to the LP, there are many possibilities and variables. This was an early CD, and I hear they've gotten better.
In regard to the harmonics, we are all in agreement. When we listen to music, high frequencies affect low frequencies, and the question of harmonics is really "moot".

I also agree on frequencies above the "audible" range. We hear, or sense with our entire body.