In search of musical excellence

Audiophiles seem to endlessly debate transducers in restless search for perfect tone, presence, and dynamics. We tweak the elements of our audio systems – akin to building a racing car – to get every ounce of music out of the vinyl grooves or hi-resolution digital files.

If racing in Formula One, we would be putting the best fuel in that car, too. Yet, how many of us really pay enough attention to the quality of our inputs? Quality of writing, playing, and recording. I reckon that some of my best “upgrades” have been marvellous music compositions magically performed and superbly recorded.

In computer engineering, and systems management generally, the acronym GIGO is widely adopted. It also applies to hi-fi. Outstanding equipment reveals the deficiencies of poor compositions, performances, and recordings.

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