Light My Fire

Nashville, TN: I don't think I've mentioned before how brilliant the boy is. I've alluded to the fact that he's sweet and kind and patient (and really good looking), but he's also just really smart. Most evenings (when I'm actually at home), we'll get together for a nosh and a cocktail and talk about our respective days. He's an audio muso of sorts, so though we both work in the industry, he knows music on a whole different level than I do. What's great is that he will talk to me like I understand what he's saying. He often mentions audio terminology, which would be considered chit chat to another audiophile, but he sometimes unintentionally talks over my head... which, in this case, has nothing to do with my height.

Tonight was no exception. He was explaining how the phase relationship between the left and right ear in a natural environment can't be accurately recreated using audio technology, but due to the Doppler effect in certain phase techniques, one can recreate an auditory illusion that is similar to a realistic audio environment. I'm not sure if it was the blank stare on my face or the casual "mmm hmmmm?" response that tipped him off to the fact that I was not as well versed in this subject as he.

Luckily, the kind soul took pity on me and decided to show me what the hell he was talking about. Gently, he placed ear buds in my ears, turned up his computer speakers and said, "now just close your eyes, baby...." Suddenly, sound entered through the right, then the left.... then behind.... then on top.... and it just clicked. I felt like Helen Keller understanding water for the first time.

Although at times it's hard to grasp what he's saying, a tangible example is the perfect way to get this non-technical girl to fully comprehend the excitement of the end result. And thanks to a quick Google search, you can experience the fire yourself.


TO APPRECIATE THE FULL EXPERIENCE:
before listening, please wear headphones, turn the volume up and close your eyes.... baby....