The Sound of Music: Is It as Important as You Think?
For a vocalist or band front person, the sound quality of your music player is indeed of utmost importance. It influences the overall experience and the connection with your audience. However, it’s also crucial to gauge the importance of high-quality audio equipment in the broader context of musicianship and music production.
Understanding the Role of Your Band Members
As a vocalist, the musicians in your band are more than just back-ups; they are an integral part of your sound and creative process. Good players, no matter their initial skill level, can grow into great players through talent and imagination, contributing valuable ideas to your music.
The Frivolity of High-End Audio Systems
Let’s discuss a situation where some musicians, often self-proclaimed 'wannabees,' invest heavily in high-end audio systems. This goes beyond the realm of necessity and often becomes a reflection of their insecurities.
Take, for instance, a case where a lady tested one such individual's claim to have a superior ear capable of detecting minute differences. She placed a record on a turntable with and without an anti-static mat and asked the person to identify which versions were better. This arrogant individual refused to participate, citing that if a difference existed, his superior ear would not be able to detect it. This attitude is common among wannabees who try to compensate for their lack of musical talent by spending exorbitant amounts on audio equipment.
Professional Musicians and Their Audio Systems
Professional musicians, on the other hand, are content with mid-range audio systems. These systems, while not perfect, are sufficient for their needs and help maintain their focus on the music rather than the technical aspects. For most professional musicians, a well-crafted audio system does more than satisfy their audio needs; it enhances their creative process.
I rate the importance of a good audio system around an 8 out of 10. If I were to prioritize it further, it could potentially bankrupt me and my extended family. I have a relatively good system consisting of a two or three-way JBL speakers, driven by a high-end Onkyo amplifier, a Toshiba CD player, and an Audio Technica Pro turntable. My digital EQ, acquired at a higher cost, was ultimately discarded due to dissatisfaction, and I replaced it with an analogue EQ that met most of my needs until it broke.
Currently, I rely solely on the audio settings of my Onkyo amplifier for my audio rig. Were I to invest more than 100,000 USD, I could consider having McIntosh and Sonus-Faber equipment. However, my current setup is sufficient for my audio needs, and it’s the music itself that brings me the most joy and satisfaction.
Streaming and Audio Quality in the Digital Age
My streaming service of choice is Qobuz, which allows me to stream music at CD quality or even better, up to 24-bit high-res 192kHz. I had a Teac A1200 reel-to-reel tape recorder, but it was stolen, and I now use a Teac Cassette player for very few remnants that have not been replaced by CDs or vinyls, which I hardly ever play anymore.
In conclusion, while the sound quality of your music player is indeed important, it should not overshadow the focus on the music itself and the musicianship of the band. A well-balanced approach is key to achieving the best results in the music production process.