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In the Forum: Audio Discussions
In the Thread: Marantz MA-9S2 Monoblock Amplifiers

Post Subject: Near Death Experience With No Sense of MortalityPosted by Paul S on: 8/27/2012

Good question, as usual, Decoud. No doubt it has something to do with the very unusual recording, plus my own penchant for "getting involved" in the music according to what the recording and the system will allow. It was not an LP, after all, but a CD, and I doubt the CD in question goes down anywhere near 3 Hz, and I use a passive pre-amp. However, it is a full "Mahler" orchestra, and you know the "dynamics" of the piece, so potential for plenty of LF energy in the "augmented" audible range. I need to look again, but I think the right channel was more stretched than the left, despite (I think...) this Mahler orchestra has basses and big horns on both sides. If you believe the "steady state" numbers, that much power input could be close to 120 dB. I would be very amazed if it was, because there was no stress at all from the system during the loudest, most "gigantic" parts, not to mention my hearing is still intact! Full "ambience" through everything. For perspective, the opening drum rolls sounded to me to be a good 50 feet away. I could still "feel" the impacts and the "ripples" very strongly, in addition to hearing them plainly. I don't know what frequency it would be, but plenty of "tactile" sensations throughout the performance.

Maybe I should dig out my sound level meter and try it again. Of course, this will have to until I have the house to myself again!

Best regards,
Paul S

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