PDA

View Full Version : The art of sound -- the art of restoration



magiccarpetride
19-10-2010, 16:43
I came to the realization that audio equipment serves the purpose that is similar to the activity of restoring precious art pieces. There is an entire discipline devoted to preserving and restoring artwork. This is necessary due to the tireless activity of the so-called 'tooth of time', that is, the forces of entropy that inevitably tend to cover the canvases, sculptures, etc. with dust, dirt and muck. The professionals who are the custodians of the artwork then work around the clock on removing the muck and the debris from the surfaces.

In a similar fashion, audio components work on removing the unwanted noise that enters the picture while we listen to the playback. Whenever I upgrade my audio chain, and if I'm happy with the results, it's mostly due to the fact that the upgrade managed to remove some noise from the sound. Clearing up the unwanted artifacts, such as noise, jitter, coloration, results in a more lifelike music reproduction.

Reid Malenfant
19-10-2010, 17:40
In a similar fashion, audio components work on removing the unwanted noise that enters the picture while we listen to the playback. Whenever I upgrade my audio chain, and if I'm happy with the results, it's mostly due to the fact that the upgrade managed to remove some noise from the sound. Clearing up the unwanted artifacts, such as noise, jitter, coloration, results in a more lifelike music reproduction.
Interesting analogy & one that i like ;) A little like looking through mist to see the overall picture & the sun burning it off to reveal a world full of colour :)

ourdogmax
19-10-2010, 18:22
Very profound :artist:

DSJR
19-10-2010, 21:28
yet someone once complained about a restored picture in the Tate Gallery or somesuch. turned out the "restoration" was little more than cleaning the glass in front of the painting, the painting itself being left alone...

michaelhigh
03-11-2010, 01:41
Vintage instruments retain patina, but we reject audio patina as unwanted artifacts. Analog guys actually leave a certain degree in place even if they are seeking mint vinyl, but gain depth that all but the best digital struggles to deliver...

DSJR
03-11-2010, 08:37
I must own some of the best digital then, 'cos i get bass and depth aplenty.