If you're going to own only one test set, this is the one.
MG Nagy | 07/22/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"How exactly is one supposed to go shopping for test discs? The only way I know is largely through trial and error, which can get expensive. For example, the Sony YEDS 18 disc sells for around US$105. Generally speaking (with the exception of the Sony disc), you get what you pay for. If you buy a US$10 disc, don't expect much.So, what should you be looking for? Most test discs confine themselves to bunches of pink noise, 1/3 octave spots, sweep tones, sine & square wave spots, and max levels. Don't worry if you don't know what all those do, you can look on the back of the CD case and at least see if they're included. Also included are some music tracks. The CD booklet (if any) is usually of limited use.While the Verany set has all the usual tracks included, it differs from most in several important ways.First, included are several tests to determine your CD players ability to compensate and correct for various disc errors. Second, you can test to determine how your player adjusts for discs that were cut using pre-emphasis. The tests will help determine if your player automatically adjusts for it, and if so, you'll hear how the audio curve is effected.Third, the enclosed book is very good, and in two languages: French & English. The booklet gives great, non-technical explanations for the tests, making this a great set for people who don't necessarily know the technical side.The fourth difference addresses the section of the set I don't normally like: the music tracks. The tracks are very well recorded, but do little to challenge your amp and speakers. Most of the tracks are of voice, natural instruments, jazz, and orchestra. These tracks do little to test a systems capability to handle a truly wide dynamic range. These are typical of the kind of music tracks included on test discs. Where Verany makes up for it is in the music track descriptions found in the booklet. The descriptions in the booklet tell you what qualities and characteristics you should be listening for on the various tracks.This set is great for both the novice and knowledgeable, and the biggest bang for the buck I've seen. The only thing that could be improved is cutting the discs on gold, improving the sound quality and accuracy significantly."
Track Listings (56) - Disc #1
