[microsound] Re: beware the decibel...

[peter lasell <p_lasell@xxxxxxxxx>]

In the last few years I've been trying to take especially good care of my ears. Through the 90s, even though I wore earplugs, I know I damaged my ears by going to techno parties and shows, as well as just learning how to dj. THese days my ears are 'mismatched', I dont have all the highend in one, and the other is lacking something else.
While I love hearing music live, most soundsystems and PAs just hurt to listen to. Which is sad because I like those high volumes, and I like the way it feels sometimes more than it sounds. While I dont know anything about the industry, I can definately hear the difference in contemporary soundsystems vs what I heard back in 92.
For 'microsound' shows, I don't think volume is key, however I think most performers have a certain 'horror vacuai' to fight against, that is, the fear of empty space. So many shows I go to are about the performer filling up their audio output, as opposed to working with silence. Either way, I don't go to live shows as much anymore because it just hurts my ears if the soundtech isn't good at mixing. In my own dj'ing I try to go easy on levels, and try to cue up records at a low volume as well.

Always wear earplugs :)

Peter
snip--------------------------
i know i listen to music too loud.  but like a drug addict, i'm  
addicted.  i've read all the literature about listening levels and  
proper mixing, and still i have difficulties resisting the temptation  
to crank the volume. i love it too much.  i bought the expensive  
custom moulded ear plugs. but, admittedly, i rarely use them.

the only thing i can offer here is pure speculation.  one day we will  
be able to bypass our ears and pipe sounds directly into our brains.  
only at this point, will we be able to indulge in the sonic  
possibilities offered by technology without damaging what is  
essentially a fairly fragile membrane, unsuited to the demands of our  
modern soundscape.
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