What is “warmth” and how do you get it?

Byroncunningham,

After looking at your excellent system, I'd like you to consider one inexpensive addition that may tune just a bit more smoothness and warmth into your system without a loss of dynamics or bass slam.

I have been working for a very long time at "tuning" my system to get just the right sense of warmth so the music sounds as "real" as possible.

Using the correct footers under my components was the final tweak that took my system where I needed it to go. I would be embarrassed to admit how many different types of footers I have tried (some quite costly) that are now either being used in our videos systems or are in exile in my closet.

So what worked? Herbie's Tenderfeet from Steve Herbelin. I am using a combination of the regular version for lighter components and the extra firm Tenderfeet under my power amp.

I couldn't tell from your photos if you have footers under the Meridian and Pass pieces but I would most strongly urge you to try the appropriate Tenderfeet and give them a listen. Steve always stands behind his products. If you don't like the outcome you'll just be out some shipping.

After reading this entire thread, especially your last posting, its sounds to me like you are just close enough that the Tenderfeet could get you where you want to be.

Jeff,
I don't think Mrtennis is wrong, the definition he gives for warmth is correct, the point is it's a matter of usage and of degrees. His definition describes a sound that is too syrupy, rather than using it to describe the 'truth of timbre' he used to describe live music. Some might call the truth of timbre of live music 'warmth' (rich body) as you and I do, others may call it neutral and only use the term 'warmth' to describe a sound that is not neutral. That's the difficulty we face in describing sound that can create long threads of angst. To complicate things in absolute terms, the further you are from the source of live music, the 'warmer' the sound will be perceived. One must decide what listening position in the hall are you trying to re-create with your system. Some like mid hall, others like the perspective of the microphones hanging above the performers. There are lots of factors to consider. Building a system that gives you the smallest compromises on the factors you value most is not "tough", its what makes this hobby fun!

"One must decide what listening position in the hall are you trying to re-create with your system"

That's a very good point that I suspect is often neglected.

THings sound a lot different depending on where you listen from. Getting this right and to your taste is a very valuable and free tweak.

And it would depend who and what is playing for me to no wear I would want to sit in the hall .

Hi Tmsorosk, may I ask if you are referring to acoustical "unplugged" music or electronically produced music as perhaps in a rock concert?

I go to classical concerts and recitals often (actually almost every week these past couple months) and I find that no matter where I sit, the concert hall sound is "warmer" than most stereo systems I hear (absolutely not at the dealers), including mine.

I can never hear that "Krell" and "Audio Research" kind of crystalline clinical sound when playing classical music
when I attend a live classical concert. I think that's their coloration to make it sound "wide open and airy" to attract a prospective customer has only 10 minutes or so at a stereo shop.

BTW in my opinion not all tube amps color its sound reproduction with warmth, and not all SS amps are cold and sterile (Pass XA....5 series and Paul Weitzel's TRL amps are solid state but they are warm sounding and I am sure many can agree with me)