I think multi-chanel is gimmicky, it reminds me of different "concert halls" from a cheap Sony or Pioneer reviever, sounds like it too, even in very expensive systems I've heard at dealers specially designed showrooms. I am not a bit impressed with SACD or DVDA, even in 2ch. I have well recorded redbook that is as good as SACD when played through a good dac, for instance with a $34K dCS SACD/CD setup, and very nearly done as well with a Musical Fidelity A3 24 Dac.
I found the difference trivial and in turn dissapointing with "hi-rez." I don't think my ears are not broken, either, as many dealers and friends have voiced the same opinion. Many audiophools relish in the trivial, stupidly small differences in sound, I'm no such fool, but surely the difference do appeal to some, which is cool. I tend to agree that analog is a better way to go, if for nothing else to be able to get to listen to the great recordings of the 60's that are just awful on CD and/or have never been remastered. Also, LPs are about $1-$3 used here for most titles, which is pretty good motivation for me to put together a cheap vinly rig.
I found the difference trivial and in turn dissapointing with "hi-rez." I don't think my ears are not broken, either, as many dealers and friends have voiced the same opinion. Many audiophools relish in the trivial, stupidly small differences in sound, I'm no such fool, but surely the difference do appeal to some, which is cool. I tend to agree that analog is a better way to go, if for nothing else to be able to get to listen to the great recordings of the 60's that are just awful on CD and/or have never been remastered. Also, LPs are about $1-$3 used here for most titles, which is pretty good motivation for me to put together a cheap vinly rig.