[quote author=drivingwheel link=topic=182792.msg2242241#msg2242241 date=150723133
Truth - my "solid A" has been rated as "A+++++" by others; thing is, I've never been overly enamored with a recording just because I'm the one who actually hit "record"
[/quote]
This is a good point, and I'm glad someone brought it up. I think, for the most part, a taper is at least slightly biased towards their own recordings. I'm not suggesting that we can't admit that another recording is better, or acknowledge that others are just as good or better, only that we are intimately familiar with our own. We are used to a specific sound or tone produced by the equipment that we've chosen because we like it. I'm no exception, I like the sound I get from my equipment. Still, I have heard plenty of recordings by others that I thought were better or equally amazing for different reasons.
In my opinion, there is a certain pride that comes with making a good recording. We remember the situation, where we were, how and what we set up, and of course, the vibe and energy of that show. Our recordings bring back that feeling. It's only natural to feel strongly towards something you've made, especially if you're happy with it. This is why I can understand Furburger's attachment to what he does...of course he takes it to a whole other level, which, let's face it, is basically ludicrous. Still, I can understand.
Furthermore, I seriously believe that 95% of the people who are downloading our postings are clueless. They often think they know what they're listening to or have heard of some of the equipment, but they really have no idea what we do. I always get a kick out of the person who says they were a taper once, because they were with a friend that recorded a few shows. Someone downloading a show is interested in hearing that show. Maybe they were there and want to have and relive that night or maybe they just like the band and that show had a solid set list, either way, they have their reasons. More likely than not, they download and listen on inferior equipment and appreciate it on a level that many of us would laugh at, but that's cool, because they're happy. What happens next: they may like to comment, rate, share or otherwise, what they perceive as amazing. The thing is, they won't bother to compare.
All this being said, the average listener has no real idea what they're listening to, only that they like it, so it must be the best.