How much difference does it make?

[GregWormald]

OP--

IMO there is really no way to put percentages on *sound quality*. Sound differences are another matter--that's mostly about room and speakers.

 

Quality however starts from the source, wherever that is for you. Once the quality is lost then nothing downstream can get it back.

 

For instance I've just started cleaning my LPs (one source) with an ultrasonic cleaner and the improvement in *sound quality* is very significant; and not just from the reduction in audible pops and clicks.

 

Another example--I sent my active speakers to the manufacturer to be upgraded to the current model, which retails about $30,000. While they were being done I listened through a very old amp and some bookshelf speakers (carefully chosen at the time but probably about $2000 total if they were made today) and the music was still very listenable even though the overall sound was very different. Same sources.

[GregWormald]

On 6/23/2019 at 3:29 PM, semente said:

 

He (Tiefenbrun) tried but could never make good speakers? 😶

 

I haven't listened to Linn speakers since the Kaber (designed by an Australian, Dr Rod Crawford) but they were excellent and I bought a pair.

 

Rod recommended tri-wiring for noticeable improvements (I tried it and agreed) and substantial improvements by tri-amping actively (which I couldn't afford at the time). Hence my speaker upgrade was to a 4 active channel per speaker (SGRs in current drive mode).

 

I thought I was finished upgrading 🤣 until I auditioned several of my favourite LPs after ultrasonic cleaning. The cleaning improved the overall sound quality and musical enjoyment significantly. (Only 750 albums still to clean.🙄)