Analog vs. digital (was Re: [MLUG - DISCUSSION] okay, mp3 fans...)

[Dave Lloyd <EMAIL:PROTECTED>]

Another hypotheis that I've heard in the argument for vinyl (and 
specifically vinyl coupled with tube amps) is that solid state 
electronics and digital recordings introduced something that had
never existed in music before--odd order harmonics.  Analog stuff is
even order harmonics which intuitively sounds more 'live' and 'real'
to the listener since that's what you hear when you're at a live
performance.  

Additionally, vinyl contains built-in compression.  Ever listen to
a classical piece on vinyl and compare it to the CD?  There are far
wider volume swings on the CD.  The built in compression of the
LP tends to reduce those volume swings.  Compression on digital formats
sounds pretty crappy, probably again because of the odd order harmonics
and the formation of square waves.  Same reason why everyone tries
to duplicate the compression distortion of the Marshall amp in 
'Whole 'lotta love' and nobody tries to duplicate the compression from
the same vintage of transistor radio.  

I will say that the guy who's setup I listened to had a pretty well
hacked CD player with an external DAC and everything.  Vinyl still
sounded better, though it lacked the powerful bass of the CD.

I suppose I just can't put my finger on it, but there's just something
warm about analog sounds.  Tube amps (both guitar and stereo) and vinyl
just have that certain je ne sais quois that digital formats lack.
Mind you, I also like taking pictures with my old (mostly) manual 
Minoltas on color slides or black and white.  Digital cameras are still
not a big deal for me, mostly because of lack of creative control
and long term archival concerns.

Dave Lloyd

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