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What is a "reference" system?

OK, most of us have an audio system, mine even works some of the time. But I see that some members have "reference" systems. This has to be better than the assorted junk that I have piled together. Probably a lot better than your rig as well.

But really, what distinguishes these folks "reference" systems from the pedestrian systems that the rest of us have? There must be something, or they could just save the keyboard time and drop the word when discussing their gear. And I am not referring to reviewers, that is a different story and one to examine more carefully in the future.

viridian
moonwatcher
582 posts
 

Well, I know you said you didn't want to open it up regarding YouTuber reviewers, but Hans Beekhuyzen has three "reference" systems. In his world, "reference" means three price points such that all components in each system are matched to each other in price.  In other words, he doesn't put a $10K DAC on a $1K integrated amp and $500 speakers. And yes, at each of these three price levels he switches review pieces in and out and lets you know what he hears and which system they are most likely a good fit (or not). 

deep_333
2,450 posts
 

There is no such thing as a reference system, when you don’t know the ins and outs of the recordings you have in hand.

Live music from the same band even is what it is...but, you weren’t sitting with the band in the studio or know anything about what all happened with the mastering apparatus.

 

My reference is live music, not a system.

asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
5,194 posts
 

My system IS my reference, the one that is most familiar to me.
I hear and know it's abilities and it's weaknesses.
I'm busy tweaking my diy's, so it's one ongoing project is to improve what 'it' is 'hearing' and do some r/t analysis on some screens.

...but the fun part is getting to play anything I want from a planet of choices.... ;)

asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
5,194 posts
 

....shooting for 'silky'...

realgoodsound
100 posts
 

Frankly, it's whatever you say it is. For some people, it could be the $1 million dollar system at AXPONA that featured the new $395k Wilson Audio XVX speakers. For someone else, it could be an NAD 3020 driving a pair of Dayton Audio Classic C65 speakers that cost $75 a pair. 

To me, the concept of a "reference" system is just another aspect of "audiophilia nervosa."

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