Running-In Your Hi-Fi Gear: Why Patience Pays Off (Even in SA)

So, you’ve just snuck some shiny new hi-fi gear past your partner, and it’s already set up in your man cave (or wherever you’ve found the space). You’re ready to hit play on your 2024 fav album, expecting a mind-blowing sound improvement. But wait, why does it sound like a fridge? Welcome to the world of running-in – that magical period where your new gear slowly sheds its stiffness, much like a good pair of new jeans.

What’s the Deal with ‘Running-In’?

If you’ve heard the term before – perhaps in relation to a car engine – you’re on the right track. Just like a car’s engine needs to bed in its parts before going full throttle, hi-fi gear, especially speakers, needs a bit of TLC before it performs at its best. It’s not just about the initial thrill of new gear; it’s about giving the mechanical parts time to settle.

Why Does This Matter?

Speakers, particularly, have components like bass cones, tweeters, and even rubber surrounds that need to “break in” over time. According to engineers, these parts are initially stiffer and may sound a bit tight (not in a good way). Once they’ve had time to move and flex, they’ll loosen up, and voila – better bass, smoother highs, and a more natural sound.

As Peter Comeau from IAG Group says: “Loudspeakers out of the box can sound harsh and flat. Give them time to breathe, and you’ll notice a change.”

How Long Will This Take?

Well, don’t expect instant gratification. The process can take anywhere from 30 hours to over 100 hours of use before your speakers fully “settle.” It’s like a fine wine – it gets better with age. Larger speakers might take longer, too. Some manufacturers, like Fyne Audio, even suggest that their speakers need hundreds of hours of use to reach their peak.

But don’t panic. You don’t have to sit through endless hours of Pink Floyd (though we wouldn’t complain if you did). Continuous playback, like leaving your speakers on low volume while you work, can speed up the process.

What About the Electronics?

Now, let’s talk amps, DACs, and streamers. Are they as temperamental as your new speakers? Not so much. Chord Electronics and Cambridge Audio agree that amplifiers might benefit from some running-in time, but DACs and streamers? Not really. These components tend to be stable from the get-go, though they may need a warm-up before hitting peak performance.

It’s Not Just the Gear That Needs Time to Adjust

Here’s a curveball – your ears need a bit of a run-in too! As Comeau from IAG points out, your brain has built up a “filter” for your old system’s sound. When you switch to new speakers, you’ll need a few days to recalibrate. So, don’t panic if the new setup feels like a culture shock. Give it time, and soon enough, it’ll sound just right.

Room Acoustics Matter Too

Lastly, don’t forget about your room. If your speakers are new, it’ll take your brain a few hours to adjust to the way they interact with your space. If the room reflections are off, it might take a little longer to settle in. But soon enough, everything will sound harmonious.

Conclusion: Patience is Key

In the world of hi-fi, patience isn’t just a virtue – it’s a necessity. Whether you’re running in your speakers or your ears, time is your friend. So, relax, let your new gear breathe, and soon you’ll be enjoying your secret purchase to its fullest. And hey, if the sound isn’t perfect yet, it’ll be soon enough!

For more tips, product reviews, and everything in-between, stay tuned to our blog – and don’t forget to check out our affiliate links for the latest gear.

Source Info: https://www.whathifi.com/features/ask-the-industry-hi-fi-engineers-weigh-in-on-the-value-of-running-in