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Accurate vs Musical

What is the basis for buying an "accurate" speaker over a "musical" one? I am very familiar with most audiophile jargon but this is one that confuses me. Musical to me means that the speakers convey the "air" or/and overtone of instruments.

"Accurate" on the other hand is what, the accuracy of a single note? If accurate does not convey the space of an instrument, how can it be defined as accurate? I can understand why an "accurate" speaker can be used in a recording studio or as a studio monitor but for casual listening/auditioning?

Thiel is an accurate speaker but Magnepan is more musical so which would truly be more faithful to the original source? Someone please clear this up for me. Thanks.
ebonyvette

Showing 3 responses by baroque_lover

baroque_lover
102 posts
 
Gregm,

I see your point. My choice of words were not the best. What I meant was a speaker that has a ruler flat FR, limited distortion, and reproduces all the details but does not have the fluidity or emotion that a musical speaker has. I am not a speaker engineer so if it is "non-linear" distortion that evokes the terms i use then so be it. :)

Cheers
baroque_lover
102 posts
 
I without a doubt believe there is a difference. I have heard speakers that reproduce a recording perfectly but sounded sterile doing it. Musical to me is one that can reproduce these nuances with fluidity and emotion.

I still believe speaker building is one part science and one part art.
baroque_lover
102 posts
 
You can argue all you want that there is no difference between musical and accurate. Using adjectives as such poses problems because people have different ideas of what they mean. I notice a difference so the average Joe posting within this thread arguing otherwise will not change my mind, as I won’t change his. As this is such a subjective hobby, my speakers must have “soul”. What does this mean? I’m not sure. The best I can explain it is making me forget about this silly hobby for 5 minutes and connect the moment with the music. That is my goal within this hobby and I have almost achieved it - a source away.

I'm a music lover first and foremost...

I’m Anti-Fi I suppose.

*The engineer will purchase a Porsche whilst the passionate aficionado will invest in the Ferrari. Poor investment? You bet. Is it worth it? You bet.*
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