...It is true that below a certain level, distortion cannot be heard. It is also true that the best way to decide if you like something is to listen to it...
Completely agreed.
...the specifications can be used to evaluate how accurate the reproduction of the music will be.
I can't agree to that at all. Specifications merely show how accurate the reproduction is of whatever test signals they use as a "standard" criteria to come up with those numbers. But here's the thing: the human ear/brain does not hear in predetermined frequency test signals and sine waves. Test signals and sine waves are mathematically created and interpreted to create data. Again, the human ear does not hear in mathematical equations. The human ear/brain is
infinitely more complex than that. For instance, it is possible to build several different pieces of equipment from tube to digital, and at all different price points with identical "high end" specifications on paper. And by the theory you have set forth, as long as they have the same specifications on paper, then they should be able to accurately reproduce the music in the same way, as long as they all share the exact same specs. However, I guarantee you
every single one of them will sound different. This is because of the components (and quality of components used) are different, and the construction, design, and layouts are all different as well. Here's another example, have a look at these two models:
Yamaha R-S500 ($350)
- 75 WPC
- 10 Hz-100 kHz
- 0.015% THD
- 100 S/N ratio
Esoteric A-100 ($19,000)
- 45 WPC
- 20 Hz-60kHz
- 0.9% THD
- 98 S/N ratio
By purely looking at these numbers does this tell us that the Yamaha is able to reproduce the music with more accuracy, detail, clarity, soundstage, and overall tonality? More than likely not. Specifications are not hard and fast rules by any means. There are many Best Buy receivers with "amazing" specs, but I wouldn't necessarily go by those numbers to tell me that they "reproduce the music better".
Also, what these specifications cannot tell you is what kind of
tonality an amplifier section has. There is no metric for that, and there is a reason for that: it is because while testing equipment can in theory record and "interpret" a violin being played, it cannot tell you
why it sounds good. It cannot have the emotional connection that the human brain has when listening to music. That is one reason why test tones are generally used, and not music (amongst other technical hurdles in doing so). There is a reason why audio is not an absolute science - because scientists and measuring equipment cannot crack the code that is the human ear/mind enigma. Specifications also do not take into account
how the human ear/brain interprets sound from one person to the other. This is where the fallacy in getting too wrapped up with specifications lie - in that it is seen as an absolute science in how the human brain interprets sound. But it isn't that easy. The human brain interprets music in boundless and immeasurable ways, and it differs from one person to the next.
...The OP asked for opinions. Since I am one that highly values accuracy in reproduction with such distortions, however pleasing they may be, I gave my opinion and the reason why.
Shelly_D
Cool, no problem with that. No harm taken or intended.
...Which Luxman's then are recommended?...I guess I am looking for something on Neutral, not too bright, not too warm (If such a thing exists)
Well, "neutral" is a subjective thing, and it varies from one person to the next. It's kind of something you have to find for your own ears I suppose.
Of the Luxman's in that era that are "suggested" (including a few from the Alpine era) would be some of these, although, these are certainly up for debate (as always, audio is very subjective):
L-1A
L-10
L-2
L-210
L-215
L-220
L-225
L-230
L-235
L-3
L-4
L-410
L-430
L-435
L-5
L-510
*L-525
L-530
L-550
*LV-109
*R-115
*R-117
An asterisk (*) denotes gear designed under the Alpine ownership.
I would say the L-2xx series is a good value and can sometimes be had for cheap. The L-4xx series and the L-5xx series are better yet, but are generally harder to find, and are usually priced higher as well. Of note, the L-10 is a slimline model, but it is built really well with nice internals. It is a dual mono design with two power transformers and two sets of caps in it for each channel, but it is a rare find. Then there is the R-115 and the Big Kahuna; the R-117. Both are very well regarded receivers. The R-115 is rated at 70 WPC, but the R-117 is a powerhouse, and is rated at 160 WPC! R-117's can be found, but they usually command a bit of a premium. But sometimes one can be had for a steal.
As for your question about other Pioneers and Luxmans (other than the ones I mentioned), do you have a maximum budget in mind for what you are looking for? I only ask because knowing what your budget is will help us to help you with suggestions to suit your budget. Again, I hope this helps. Just let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers.
