I found this thread very interesting to read. I have never claimed to be an expert in computer audio. Matter of fact, my article is aimed at individuals who are interested in testing the waters of PC audio. I know without a doubt, that there are many members of this board that have a far broader knowledge base of the software behind the Squeezebox than I do.
With that being said, I know what I hear. I have been aroud audio for the last 25 years, and listening to music is one of my great pleasures in life. In my college years, I worked part time as an audio salesperson for a very good store. I know several writers and manufacturers, and have been fortunate enough to be exposed to a large array of gear, and systems. My personal views are somewhat middle of the road. I do not believe in audio mysticism, nor do I embrace the dogmatic teachnings of the audio establishment. Although I do believe that the measurements crowd has a better handle of what is going on in audio reproduction than the "other" side. The main point of this thread appears to be centered around my comments regarding my choice not to use FLAC. Fair enough. I went back and listened once again to FLAC vs uncompressed WAV, and still prefer uncompressed. The differences are subtle in this area, although still noticable in the songs I listened to. I understand why the many aherents of lossless feel the way they do, can see their points. But, if there is no audible compromise with FLAC, then what I hear from the SB will be the equivilent to what they are hearing. So my comments about the sonic abilities of the SB will still have the same frame of reference. Now about power supplies. Even this board has its adherents to upgraded power supplies for the SB. There are a myriad of reasons why people think a power supply leads to improved performance, but in the end, well they do believe it to be an improvement. I have no political agenda regarding the SB. Frankly there is nothing for me to gain for saying positive or negative things about it. I am just trying to relay my listening experiences. That simple. Now regarding the JVC as a digital piece. Some people took exception with its use. As a stand alone player the JVC is no longer competitive in the audio world. As a transport, it is still very good. My personal system has a diverse mix of components that tries to embody the spirit of Affordable Audio. Certain pieces are truly high end, and not inexpensive. The Electra-Print amps sell for 2.5K, the Kukama DAC for about the same. The Audio Magic illusions 4D cabling is the most expensive piece of the system. Yet all components are judged on their individual merit, not price, not age, not popularity. The pre-amp is based around a pair of transformers that sell for $59 each. The Audio Nirvana drivers retail for $199 a pair. The JVC XL-Z1050TN is still a fine transport. These components still offer high quality sound reproduction, and ar capable of showing the differences between other associated electronics. Now for the nit picky stuff. Yes Allyson Krause was incorrect. My middle daughters name is Allison, and I made an error that got through my proof reading. So the display of the SB is liquid crystal, whatever. Will this stop someone from buying it? Yes my use of iTunes is incorrect, it will be changed. I stand by my opinion that a stock SB is at best an average digital source. It can be improved upon. Actually I enjoy using it, and appreciate its convenience. Mark Marcantonio publishes Affordable Audio, and I believe he would be more than willing to give space to an alternate point of view regarding the SB. If you wish to take the time to present your thoguhts, then drop him an email at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Regards John Hoffman -- mister pig ------------------------------------------------------------------------ mister pig's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=12566 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=38258 _______________________________________________ audiophiles mailing list [email protected] http://lists.slimdevices.com/lists/listinfo/audiophiles
