Loudness or Clarity?

Putting in a new sound system is not as difficult as it sounds.  But before you get drawn in to the bells and whistles, go ask yourself whether you want it loud, or you prefer something that is clear.  Although the difference is somewhat obvious, by knowing which of the two you prefer, you already create a clearer line towards the direction of your potential acquisition.  

 

Loudness is a characteristic of sound systems whose impact can be felt over a bigger distance, while clarity is a more sublime characteristic where subtle musical details are brought out.  Age also plays out in this equation, as loudness is preferred by the younger set, while clarity is the direction chosen by people as they mature.