What is so called 'Classic' Hi-Fi and does any deserve the title?

[jazzpiano]

Hello,

I cannot say what I think is "classic" as I have not heard enough contenders (a few). I can only say what is some of the "best" sounding gear to my ears:

~Rogers Ls3/5as
~Daybreak Model 22 loudspeakers
~Mark Levinson ML2 25 watt mono-blocks
~Acoustat 2+2 electrostats
~BEL 2002 amplifier
~Michell Gyro w/ Dynavector tonearm and Goldring Electro MC cart.
~Spendor BC1/SP1
~Audire Parlando class A amplifier
~Well-Tempered Arm
~Discovery Signature cables

Best,
Barry

[jaym481]

I've used a Garrard 401, through Leak amp (via a passive switch and a conrad-johnson PV5 preamp as phono pre), to Tannoys, I think I know why these things are "Classics."

[Reffc]

I would say that "classic" defines any piece of equipment which has stood the test of time and remained in production largely unaltered for many years OR a piece if kit that by virtue of its design, quality, performance and accessibility (ie affordability) has set some sort of milestone or benchmark in hifi. My "classic" list would probably include:

Quad 33/303;
Denon DL103;
Garrard 301/401;
Transcriptors Hydraulic Reference deck;
Michell Gyrodec;
Quad ESLs;
Rotel RA920/930AX
Audiolab 8000A;
Decca London cartridges;
Shure V15 Mk3;
SME 3009 (any of them);
Thorens TD150;
Lenco GL75;
Rogers LS3/5A;
Harbeth loudspeakers (model HL);
Tannoy DC range (York, Lancaster, Cheviot,Devons)
Mission 760i;
Celestion Dittons;
Linn LP12;
Rega RB250;
SME 309/312/IV/V;
Technics SL1200;
Radford STA15/25;
Leak Stereo 20;
Naim Nait 5.

[walpurgis]

Paul, your list, which I know is not inclusive, probably matches that which most of us would have put together. Personally, I'd remove Audiolab though, because I've used them and found the sound uninspiring, instead I'd definitely add Lowther. I've had a couple of pairs and while their sound is not for me, they are certainly spectacular and have been around since we were cave dwellers. Geoff.

[pavalon]

The Quad ESL 57 is in my view the most iconic hi fi product ever and fully deserved the 'cult' staus following.
It would be at the top of my 'classic' list follow closely by any of the vintage Tannoy Monitor Gold speakers.

[michaelhigh]

Hello,

I cannot say what I think is "classic" as I have not heard enough contenders (a few). I can only say what is some of the "best" sounding gear to my ears:

~Rogers Ls3/5as
~Daybreak Model 22 loudspeakers
~Mark Levinson ML2 25 watt mono-blocks
~Acoustat 2+2 electrostats
~BEL 2002 amplifier
~Michell Gyro w/ Dynavector tonearm and Goldring Electro MC cart.
~Spendor BC1/SP1
~Audire Parlando class A amplifier
~Well-Tempered Arm
~Discovery Signature cables

Best,
Barry

This is my opinion, that quality can have any number of names but must sound coherant, if not superb. The kit will separate itself upon first listen. In the meantime a mere mention of good gear should suffice to open the door to the possibilities of a particular product, at least to me. If something rattles, it sucks! If something sits up and purrs, it distinguishes itself from the get go.

[walpurgis]

I note that many are including the LS3/5A speaker and while I'm not criticising this, I have a question. What is this thing with LS3/5A speakers? I know many people rave about them, but I just don't get it! What is it that produces the seeming reverence? I've used and heard many variants of the LS3/5A on the end of decent amplification etc. and whilst they sound pleasant, to me they just sound small and they are definitely not neutral. A pair of old Sonus Faber Electas for instance, will offer great delicacy, sound less coloured, will image just as well or better, offer more transparency, much more punch and grip, sweeter treble, better power handling and sensitivity and cost you less (just). I'm sure the LS3/5A do belong in a list of 'Classics', but I would not keep a pair myself. Mind you I'm a Tannoy man and that's a whole different ball game. Geoff.

[jaym481]

When you're a "Tannoy man" a lot of well-regarded speakers sound "small." I heard a pair of small Harbeths a while ago, I forget the model, but they were LS3/5 sized. The first thing I remember was "where's the *presence*?" They imaged well for two-ways, and did mid range very well, but they demonstrated to me why bass is a fundamental part of music that I just can't do without.

[morris_minor]

Back in the dim and distant past I had an Amstrad amplifier. That was definitely a classic. A classic piece of Lord S'ralan's finest crap . . .

[walpurgis]

Back in the dim and distant past I had an Amstrad amplifier. That was definitely a classic. A classic piece of Lord S'ralan's finest crap . . .

The stuff of nightmares! I know, I've been there too. We used to call them "Amsturds".

By the way Bob, is that actually your 'slightly' modified Minor? Shame the bonnet won't shut!