Originally posted by bottleneck
Certainly I think there is a 'house sound'.
I cant think of many audio companies that dont have a house sound however.
I dont think the house sound changes the way people listen to music. Its just about choosing the way you want your music to sound so that you can best enjoy it.
I agree, personally I would be disappointed if different manufacturers didn't have their own unique sound, characteristics, idiosyncrasies - whatever you want to call them. That's what make's it fun.
What I find unnerving is the fact that people buy into the marketing hype and forget about what the hi-fi is trying to do - communicate the music to YOU!
I don't think I have ever been 'forced' to listen to any Hi-Fi in a certain way - perhaps the sales rep is telling you to listen to a certain aspect of the music, but I'd say most people would say 'bollox to that' and listen the way they want to.
I remember listening to a Naim system and having my socks blown off, I don't remember anyone telling me how to listen to it, and it was my music so I knew how I wanted it to sound. Equally, I have listened to 30 grand Wadia systems which have left me totally non-plussed
I don't own any Naim Hi-Fi, but I can't understand why there are so many people who are queing up to knock it. It stinks of the 'my car is faster than yours' approach, fortunately, Hi-Fi is not as clear cut as the time it gets from 0-60, there is an emotion attached which can't be measured.
Wingnut