low_delta: (rock)
low_delta ([personal profile] low_delta) wrote2006-01-02 01:44 pm

audiophiles?

How good a stereo system do you have to have before you can hear the difference between an LP and a CD? You know, how people say that CDs lack the warmth of an analog recording? I know I don't have a great turntable, but it doesn't sound nearly as good as the CD player. The CD has a deeper, more vibrant sound. Or maybe I just have no idea what's missing, and one day I'll figure it out and all CDs will sound crappy ever aver after.

[identity profile] ravenfeather.livejournal.com 2006-01-03 02:28 am (UTC)(link)
I have an old kenwood from the mid eighties, and the turntable was probably replaced in the early nineties, and *I* can tell the difference.. and I am certainly no "expert" or audiophile.

I don't know WHAT it is or why, but warm describes it very well. I like LP's better.. the sound anyway. You can't beat the convenience of CD's if you don't want to hear an entire album, or even song. Even the digitally remastered stuff (I have tried replacing the Moody Blues.. do you have any idea how LITTLE they remaster???) and still prefer the albums.. flaws and all.

[identity profile] low-delta.livejournal.com 2006-01-03 02:50 am (UTC)(link)
I like the convenience of CDs, and the artwork of LPs. The CDs have a slight lead on that one, though. Right now, our turntable is only adequate. You can hear a bit of a motor hum or some kind of buzz. And most of our LPs are in poor condition, with much scratchiness. So that gives CDs a big lead. And I haven't been able to detect that warmth, or the digital "drop out." I'm wondering if it would be worth it for me to upgrade my turntable. I'm thinking not. Maybe just a new cartridge.

[identity profile] ravenfeather.livejournal.com 2006-01-03 11:36 am (UTC)(link)
Probably not.. since no matter what you do to your turntable, you are still left with most lps in poor condition. And.. if you are happy with CD's.. why buck the system that is working for you?

*grin*

[identity profile] specificocean.livejournal.com 2006-01-03 07:17 pm (UTC)(link)
Exactly what I was talking about in my response!

Fortunately, I took care of most of my LPs, so the scratches, ticks, and pops aren't a problem.

The biggest change was replacing the cartridge...it's like hearing my records for the first time again!

PLUS...I can find gems at garage sales, at used record stores (Flat Black and Circular in East Lansing, MI...a plug for you!, and other places for FAR less than CDs....

[identity profile] ravenfeather.livejournal.com 2006-01-04 12:11 am (UTC)(link)
*laughing*

I have a couple of Alice Cooper LP's that were recorded before stereo.. talk about sucky sound!! And to think.. we used to BUY this stuff.. and think it was great!!

[identity profile] specificocean.livejournal.com 2006-01-04 02:55 pm (UTC)(link)
Still sounds good....and some people go all OUT for that with LPs....for proof, go to www.continuumaudiolab.com.....