My own familiarity with audio gear dates back to about 1970. At that point and for several decades after that, virtually all receivers (tuner, preamp, amplifier in one box) and all integrated amplifiers had loudness controls. Nothing novel about that. When the purist approach took over the high end, thanks to Harry Pearson, etc, the loudness control became a "quaint" feature that one was taught to do without, because bass, treble, and loudness controls color the sound, we were told. Soon, they were gone from the scene. And not much missed.
Fletcher Munson 'Loudness Control' Video
Anyone listening at low levels (or advising others who do) ought to watch this IMO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnC35ATzz_0&t=470s
Interesting, I didn’t realize it was research for Bell Labs regarding telephones.
I’ve always said, it is named stupidly, and still very relevant but poorly understood.
He is right, in all my years, my Yamaha CR-1040 Receiver has the best implementation. I’m also happy with how my Chase RLC-1 Remote Line Controller automatically implements bass boost as you lower the volume below your pre-set ’normal’.
Implementation is important to benefit properly from the scientific facts.
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- 19 posts total
- 19 posts total

