Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Technical Questions 7 Channel Amps

A linear amplifier is supposed to be just that, a linear amplifier. Phase and amplitude distortion present problems.

If phase distortion exists, it is my opinion that its effect should be contained in the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) numbers.

Comments?

Wow. Lots of theoretical mathematics! I agree with you. That is one of the reasons why there are so many different types of speakers and amplifiers, etc. out there. Not everyone hears the same. It is highly subjective. If one looks at the output of a tube amplifier versus solid state, some people prefer the sound of the tube which typically has a lot more distortion. It is the type of distortion that is "pleasing" to some ears. I think that some people can hear the phase distortion, albeit subtley. They may use the term "more transparent" to describe an amp with a large frequency bandwidth. I know there are lots of people who don't hear the difference.


I guess what it comes down to is that a lot of manufacturers use the numbers game to play into marketing. For some people, the numbers seem to be a significant factor. Others don't care and are happy with a HTIB. Then there are those who can hear the difference. Those are the most unfortunate as they end up shelling out big bucks for what they perceive sounds better.

I would always caution someone who asks "what is the best ...?" with respect to home audio equipment. While someone can be given a myriad of options that may sound great, it comes down to what sounds good to their ears. Perhaps the best advice comes down to what their budget can afford? That is where I find Axioms great due to the "bang for the buck".

Well said, Bruce. But perhaps I should first say welcome to the boards. Have you been a lurker long?

Amen, Peter. Welcome Bruce. I find myself spending a lot of time on other forums hammering away at the point that "better" is a subjective conclusion. My "better" may be your "worse."

Yes, well said Bruce. And welcome to the boards! Lots of different people will hear lots of different sounds out of audio gear. Since this hobby is so subjective there are a lot of flame wars going on. Healthy, friendly debate is much more preferable.

I love the battles concerning cables and discernable audio differences and amplifiers with their bright/warm sounds etc etc. I love that there are people so far on each side of the fence. People that are sure that they can hear a difference and people that are sure that nobody can hear a difference. That is what makes life fun. Being different. Look at political opinions, religious etc. I have always hated that people say, "we can talk about anything as long as it is not politics or religion" or whatever highly debatable topic, but that is bull. It is so fun to hear the spectum of ideas and thoughts and logic. The science arguments the faith arguments the I can hear subtle differences arguments etc etc.

As opposed to idle chit chat these things are acutally interesting to talk about. Although I would have to agree that there is a way to debate that is friendly and understanding and not negative and belittling.

Just my thoughts. . .

No doubt, sssutherland. I like reading about this stuff, too. It just seems driven by ego and machismo more often than not. They are kinda fun to read in a voyeuristic kind of way.

Besides, it'd be boring if everyone had the same opinion. . .

Something to consider: when it comes to electronics, there are engineering principles and laws of physics; when it comes to listening enjoyment, there are opinions.

The two are NOT the same!!!

Fact not Fiction.

Enjoy your audio gear!!!

Even within the relatively narrow confines of the Axiom world there are strong opinions!!

LOL!!

This is true!!