Negative feedback Amp=more faithful reproduction?

Dracule1:

You did read this in the article, right?

"Only by testing, working with the devices and taking careful measurements will you find out what really happens. Relying on maths formulae (regurgitated ad nauseam) or 'common wisdom' is not always the best way to get to the truth."

So what did the author use to test his theories?

"For the majority of the tests described, the effects were simulated rather than measured. There are some very good reasons for this, with the primary reason being that the simulator has access to 'ideal' amplifiers. These have infinite bandwidth, infinite input impedance, zero distortion and zero output impedance. Being perfect, they also contribute zero noise."

I know of no amplifier that has infinite bandwidth, infinite input impedance, zero distortion, zero output impedance, and contributes zero noise. If anyone has one, let me know, I would like to purchase it.

Also, you did read his qualifications, right?

"PROPERLY IMPLEMENTED, negative feedback will invariably reduce distortion to levels that are well below audibility. Not just harmonic distortion, but the much more intrusive intermodulation distortion. IF DONE INCORRECTLY the results can be awful."

I agree with this statement. But therein lies the rub. And you do realize that in the 70's NFB was used to get distortion below audibility. But most agree that, as implemented, it sounded pretty bad.

"What sound you like has nothing to do with original question. "

It does in that there is no concrete objective answer to the question possible.

It is a subjective question not an objective one to start with, so an objective/quantitative answer cannot be had.

Therefore one must practically rely on what they hear and prefer as data points towards obtaining a meaningful answer. All else is just a particular spin on the truth, and I do not mean that in a derogatory sense, only stating the facts.

Kijanki, I can think of nobody I would rather have solve that equation! Take your time! I can survive in the interim. :^)

KiJani:

I think you're talking about distinctions between local feedback and global feedback.

Mapman:
The answer to your question is to do away with reproduction altogether. Sell all your equipment and go to stadiums, concert halls, jazz clubs, auditoriums, amphitheaters, subways, bathrooms, etc. Go live!

OK, so I will go out on a limb and agree with Kijanki that educated application of NF = more faithful reproduction, in a pure technical sense, though as we all know, no solution is perfect and there are always potential drawbacks to deal with. In the case of NF, it would seem to be potentially higher IM distortion that just so happens to come into play in the most sensitive region of the human hearing spectrum where it matters most. That would up the ante to get it all done right!

Now I will go back and do more listening to determine further for myself who has done it right and who has not.