Help with compression and dynamic range


I'm 51. After a 15 year period of dealing with mortgage payments and childcare needs, I'm trying to get back into higher-end audio quality - especially when it comes to dynamic range in concert DVDs. I've recently spent countless hours trying to research CDs, MP3s and compression issues - with no resolve.

How can I tell which concert DVDs offer wider dynamic ranges? Or, for that matter,CDs? Is there a rating on the covers? I'm willing to do my homework if anyone can give me a reference. I've just read "Get Better Sound" by Jim Smith with no resolve.

Also, I'm looking to purchase a DVD player which will maximize sound quality when I can determine which DVDs and CDs are recorded with minimum compression and wider dynamic range. Can anyone explain what to look for when purchasing a higher-end DVD player. I've seen ratings for DACs, but am unsure what they mean.

ANY help is appreciated.
kewadinbob

Showing 1 response by mcondo

Hello youngster, re concert DVD/Blu-rays most recent ones have better specs than cd's and sound very good. I do not think the specs are printed on the jackets, etc but your player / TV should display the specs if there is a menu choice for it. What music do you like - I can post a few good ones if we have similar tastes.

Re a player, many will point you to an Oppo machine. I am happy with my Sony (have 2) and it only cost $150 or so. Look for units that have analogue outs to connect to your system.