I think you are all missing his point.It is my personal opinion that as human beings we vary in our ability to handle multiple sensory input simultaneously. I have found personally that I enjoy just as much if not more than my reference system (30K all tube system)the sound of my cheap panasonic CD/clock radio playing in the background when I am focused on my work (reading, writing). In ophthalmology this phenomena is well documented in the literature whith regard to visual perception in the midst of competeing stimuli(auditory etc.) Ever wonder why you turn down your car radio when looking for a particular street in the dark? Certainly we all appreciate the value of a dark room in critical listening. I suspect that less resolute sound is less demanding on the sensorium as suggested. Just my opinion.
Horrific Confession and Question
While shopping for classical music in one of the mega retailers recently, I found myself quite carried away by whatever they were playing, finding the selection as well as the sound very pleasing. At the risk of never being allowed to post on this forum again, I am ashamed to admit that I discovered I was listening to BOSE mini speakers which were sticking out haphazardly from the ceiling. This leads me to wonder if background listening presents totally different challenges than focused, attentive listening. Against my audiophile background and judgement, I am wondering if I should install boomier "mid-fi" gear for multi room and entertaining guests when I renovate the house. Any thoughts?