Do you think an association of the AMG PRE with the blocs ST10-M make sense ?
Hi Luculus,
Yes, it makes TOTAL sense, as does the AMG PRA used in ANY System.
One of the most unique qualities of the AMG PRA, is "a user-selectable 4 stage “Active Low Frequency and Harmonic Gain” control".
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Users of smallish speakers would often detect a distinct drop in bass response with some audio tracks. Instead of a simple “Bass Boost” function that lifts a targeted low-frequency band, a user-selectable 4 stage “Active Low Frequency and Harmonic Gain” control compensates for the lack of bass presence. It achieves some bass extension and a more natural roll-off.>>>>
There has been some discussion here about the sonic value of somehow sending your signal "directly" from your DAC, and the accuracy of doing so.
It is 100% true that sending the signal direct can be the "most accurate" path to Signal Transfer. That said that is IMPOSSIBLE without running through a VOLUME CONTROL, or else your system would be running ON FULL Signal Strength.
While many, including me, opt for the most accurate signal transfer available, not always is that the BEST way to enjoy your system.
The AMG PRA, as I posted above, has "a user-selectable 4 stage “Active Low Frequency and Harmonic Gain” control".
What does that mean to you? Well, High Performance listening, is MORE than having the most accurate signal through your system to your speakers. The speakers ultimately send the sound out into your ROOM, and too your EARS, for your brain to assemble into MUSIC.
So, you need to address those two areas (ROOM and EARS) also.
And let me back up here a second. You ALSO need to address SPEAKER SIZE and Bass capabilities, and your preferred LISTENING Levels.
Those too will affect your ultimate and accurate enjoyment of the MUSIC.
When a Recording Engineer engineers and masters a recording, they do so at a "very specific SPL." So that means the SOUND they want is SPECIFIC to the SPL they are using to MASTER. They also have very specific room treatments, and monitoring distances.
So unless you use these exact same parameters you WILL NOT be hearing what they heard, or intended you to hear.
To further complicate this you're not using the same speakers with the same bass abilities.
We also have something called the Fletcher-Munson effect, which means your frequency perceptions are determined by the SPL you normally listen at. In the old days, there was often a switch for "loudness" which varied the High and Low Frequencies to accommodate the hearing losses at lower SPLs due to Fletcher-Munson.
So if you are listening through small speakers at a lower (than engineered) SPL, then you will not hear ALL the Music.
And finally, another issues is your room and your hearing ability. Imperfect room issues, and hearing losses or reductions, can also lead to a reduced accurate representation to the presentation.
Edit: (must be the coffee) Let me also mention that I have often wondered why Recording Engineering information, such as Monitor Brand and Type, Listening Distance and SPL were not included or mentioned for every recording. THAT would certainly allow you to at least attempt to duplicate the INTENDED SoundScape.
So, this "user-selectable 4 stage “Active Low Frequency and Harmonic Gain” control", can be a really incredible adjunct to achieving the SOUND and Sonic Imagery you are looking (hearing) for.
