Hifi debate

Recently, there were some debate in R33 on the topic of hifi equipment vs music. Someone has mentioned that using an cheap MP3 player, one could enjoy music which I agree. In fact, the different between the use of various mix & match hifi equipemts vs. using simple MP3 system is in the different level of "listening" requirement.

The function of the hifi equipment is to reproduce music in as realistic format as possible. Some of us has a lower requirement with using of a simple mini combo. Others are more demanding in wanting to listen to realsitic, transparent, and music with good soundstage. There is no right or wrong...only the differences in needs and requirements.

Nevertheless, as R33 is an audiophiles forum, the main objective is the pursuit of music excellence where the "demand" from the system is stringent. Using the latest James Bond movie as an example. Some would prefer to watch it in the cinema in order to enjoy the surround soundstage, the big screen and the comfortable environment. Others are willing to make do with a good home system and home plasma TV with original DVD. Some would prefer to buy pirated DVD and watch it at home on TV where the images are not clear and poor sound stage. Everyone of the above is having the same objective of "watching" the latest James Bond movie. However, the "demand" is different..

For hifi, the objective of the hifi system is in the listening of music. Thus, when one chooses to use an MP3 to listen to "compressed" form of music vs. the listening of audiophiles recording CDs, we are talking of different thing. For the latter, the audiophiles aim to reproduce music using the various "best" (in his own standard) hifi equipment to suit his demand.

For me, since I have gone into the hifi arean using vintage equipments, I am hoping to use the equipment to reproduce the sound that I like. The WE 124 + 755a + Fishers 50C is a combo that I would continue to listen and explore in order to bring out the best in its system...