Is live reproduction the goal of audio?

I suppose I'd answer yes to the question, assuming the recording in the question was live.

Having said that, I have been closer to the live event in my system in the past than I am now, but I am enjoying my system now more than ever. In fact, I don't listen as much to "the system" as I do to the music. I am certain my system is less accurate than it was three years ago, but it's sure more musical.

I guess my goal...is to assemble a system of components that gets me closer to the original performance...but above all communicates the composer's/artist's message and the emotion of the performance and music being played.

What exactly entails "getting closer to the original performance"?

I've been struggling with this concept myself, and while I have owned components that have been technically superior in accurately reproducing the recording, my present gear clearly communicates the emotion of the performance in a more effective manner.

I'm not sure which of my several system iterations gets me closer to the original performance, but I tend to favor my present, less accurate system.

What music isn't recorded live? How else can you record an instrument if it isn't a live person recording it?

True. Yet, recording techniques vary, and some engineers/labels (think Chesky among others) endeavor to capture the live event more honestly than, say bands like Pink Floyd or Porcupine Tree, which utilize gobs of processing in the studio. Even the latest White Stripes CD was recorded down and dirty in a garage to avoid slick over processing.

"Live" recordings, like those by Chesky, can be better reference recordings by which to judge one's system's capabilities, since the instruments are often acoustic, and the recordings utilize little added processing.

Also, it's possible to record some instruments directly into a computer drive, using a midi keyboard and computer with Pro Tools software, for example. I would suggest that although this is a real person playing a real instrument, it's not what most would accept as live.

As in most things, a "live" recording can be many shades of grey.

Boa2, if I understand you correctly, you are proposing that our audio systems are God Portals? Whoa! I need to eat one more mushroom before I begin to listen tonight.

Mekka-lekka-hi-mekka-hiney-ho, Brother. :)

Charlie101, I've read all your Audiogon posts in attempt to find something positive and redeeming in your writings. None have offered anything positive or helpful. All are snide, sarcastic, and negative. Please offer something useful beyond your unwavering bullshit.

Lets everybody put up the pics of the rooms ...regardless of price of system and we will find newbee city. Everyone talks the talk but the pictures are a horrible presentation of hifi. That's my point .....who cares what you own....your room is a tell tell of how much you are misunderstanding ...yet you offer the advice up.
C5150 (Answers)

C5150, how about posting a photo of your room, since that appears to be the tell of how much you understand. Teach us through example.

You are not the arbiter of what can be called an audiophile system and what cannot be called an audiophile system, no matter how you prepare your steak.

I find your posts confusing as hell, frankly, and now I'm tired of reading your absolutist opinion.

Blechhh.

09-27-05: C5150
hi guys

I'm a michael green customer and I also use his full method of tuning.If you want the real deal go and ask him on tuneland.There is so much you are not aware of....happy hunting.
C5150 (Answers)

Now, the picture is becoming clearer.

01-28-06: C5150
You cannot teach a guy who knows it all already. You are audiophiles right .You got me too. Man I better go lick my wounds.
C5150 (Answers)

Post your photos, and any explanations required. Until you do, you have no basis on which to judge others.

...I still am looking to learn about A'goners views about whether live reproduction is the goal of audio in their view.

Thanks.
Lakefrontroad (System | Threads | Answers)

Live reproduction is no longer my goal. If it comes as an ancillary benefit, then I'll take it.

By the way, if your goal is the live reproduction, I have just received a recording that should be considered in your reference library.

Bill Bruford's "Earthworks Underground Orchestra" Summerfold Records BBSF 013CD

Recorded live at the Iridium Jazz Club in NYC. Great recording!