2. amps-preamps
  3. 147886-11297

Should an amp have a "personality"?

I currently have a SimAudio W-7 amp.  If there is a word to describe its sound, it would be NEUTRALITY precisely capitalized.  I mean it is neutral to a fault.  It's NOT warm, or bright, or analytical, or sweet, or anything that might be misconstrued as a personality.  It's just "IS".  It has nothing that would offend me but nothing that is endearing either.  I suppose some people may like this type of sound.  I also have another SimAudio Moon W-3 amp, and although it is neutral, but it has a distinct personality of being slightly forward, slightly upfront and ultimately more interesting to listen to.  

At this point, I am a bit disappointed what the W7 is not "FOR".  I want its sound to be FOR something be it slightly warm, or forward, or a touch bright or something that is a bit interesting even if it is a flaw.  It's like a politician who wouldn't say he's for something at the risk of offending his potential voters.  

PASS Labs amps are known to be a bit warm in the bass along with all their class A type of sound just as tube amps but they somehow make music sings.  
andy2

Showing 14 responses by andy2

andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
One amp to trump them all?

Which amp you may have in mind?  
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
even though you posed it incorrectly

What does it mean?  I thought you said an amp should have a "personality"?  What is it that not "correct"?
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Andy, could you learn to read English?
Not your English.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
viridian,
could you translate your post to English?
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Exactly how do you determine neutrality? Are you using recordings where you were present in the studio when they were recorded? Or is neutrality a code word that justifies a purchasing decision?

Im not real bright but always thought it was an objective term.

Hm ... how do you determine something is neutral?  I think it's a matter of listening a "component" with other associated equipment and different recordings.  If the sound is consistently neutral, then it is most likely neutral.  

As for being objective, since it is always subjected to a person judgement, I think there is always some part of it that is subjective.  

We are getting too philosophical here.  I don't know how to define what  "neutrality" is but I know it when I hear it.  That's all I could say.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
It is also possible that you might prefer tube amp. I do too, I don't have one because I would want a great one and that is big expenses.

Yes, it all comes down to cost ... if only I have a million lying around lols
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Incorrect part was assuming that it might not have one. That is impossible, at least from my point of view.

That is nit-picking.  If you're right then there should not be a word "neutrality" in the English language since there is nothing in the universe that is absolutely "neutral".
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Some of those German audiophiles and a few others in their quest for the  ///'neutral'/// sound get the sound that is sterile and lacks many colors and nuances of the original.

You just used the word "neutral".  
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
As to your response to jetter's comment, have you considered trying higher efficiency speakers?
I think ultimately every speakers have their compromises.  I currently use the Thiel CS2.4 which I like a lot being time-phase coherent.  
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Our hearing is too complicated and the English language is not adequate to characterize our hearing perceives sound and music.  

If we can't agree on the meaning of the word "neutrality" then it's hard to move to the next phase.  If "neutrality" does not exist, then why do professional reviewers keep using the word?  Is it the best they can do?

Of course there are others who believe "neutrality" does not exist because every single component such as an amp has its own distinct sound therefore by definition is not "neutral".  

Tube amps are the most "colorful" but for whatever reason most people believe they are most truthful in term of reproducing music.  Too bad they cost too much lols.  Hey like they say, you have to pay to play.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
jetter,

For example, if I need a tube amp that has the same drive as the W7, I would probably have to spend a lot of money.  Of course I could get a 40W tube amp but that won't be enough for most applications.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
No No. I'm not copping an attitude. That's not my way of telling you to get lost. I'm just trying to give you my honest 2 cents on it is all.

I am not sure who should get lost not having any decent to say.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
ivan_nosnibor,

do you have a problem?  you posted as if someone just punched you in the face.
andy2 OP
1,522 posts
 
Neutral, Natural, what is it really
Some have made the accusations that every component has its own sound personality therefore nothing is "neutral". Then why professional reviewers and people keep using the word "neutral"? Kind of a mystery.

I think it is the Thiels that are not making you happy
Ultimately I think every speakers will have their own compromises.  I can get a smaller monitors but it will have its short comings.  
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