Any preference for a "target" curve response is intimately tied to the loudness level. I have found that I personally prefer flat response in my listening spaces, ranging from a heavily treated room, to no acoustic treatments (but both speakers and myself away from the walls and the listener relatively close to the speakers). I am a big fan of DSP, and that includes the automatic approaches like Audyssey (I have had several XT32 receivers, as well as XT) and Dirac (a friend has the PC based version). On his system we both also prefer flat target curves.
However, in order to get satisfactory perception of "realism" in the reproduced sound, I found that I needed the volume to be at reference level, or having some form of dynamic equalization engaged. In general I aim for "fidelity" rather than "personal preference", and so I inherently find preference where I find accuracy
, ie. flat response (which I then modify with the DEQ
)
When I build a new 2-way satellite pair of speakers my favorite first listen is with an inexpensive old Onkyo XT32 receiver with a built in digital crossover (those were manufactured for only a short amount of time). All I need is a pair of speaker boxes, bass units, tweeters, and, if so desired, a subwoofer. Everything else is done by the receiver, which can be bought used for less than $400. Cannot beat that value for money.
However, in order to get satisfactory perception of "realism" in the reproduced sound, I found that I needed the volume to be at reference level, or having some form of dynamic equalization engaged. In general I aim for "fidelity" rather than "personal preference", and so I inherently find preference where I find accuracy
When I build a new 2-way satellite pair of speakers my favorite first listen is with an inexpensive old Onkyo XT32 receiver with a built in digital crossover (those were manufactured for only a short amount of time). All I need is a pair of speaker boxes, bass units, tweeters, and, if so desired, a subwoofer. Everything else is done by the receiver, which can be bought used for less than $400. Cannot beat that value for money.