Recently I switched from Apple Music to Spotify free/Navidrome. I am moving my library to Navidrome slowly. I have done a similar thing in the past as well.
I noticed that both times, as well as trying out new speakers, the first song I listened to was In the End by Linkin Park, followed by their latest album.
What is yours?
Edit: Holy Shit! I was not expecting so many replies. It is not possible for me to reply to everyone right away. I will listen to each of your first songs and reply to everyone.
Song for the Dead, by Queens of the Stone Age
I’m choosing Iron Maiden’s Powerslave today
I test every new headphone and speaker system with Watermelon Man by Herbie Hancock. So many layers to the music that gets washed out on poor setups so it’s great to check dynamics!
Radiohead - In Rainbows
My wife says: something with a lot of bass.
Well, you bet me to it, but what can I say? That’s my answer, too.
Ace of spades - Motorhead.
Lowrider -Ode to Ganymede on Vinyl cause it’s fun to break speakers in like a proper lady.
Unless it is faster to use Bandcamp.
Depends on the day and mood, but Firestarter by The Prodigy is a good speaker stress tester.
Probably The Very Best of João Gilberto, or something like that. Something old enough to have used analog equipment and have actual stereo from separate mics instead of just panning on the mixing board.
Austin Wintory - Apotheosis (but the flac version).
Just such a gorgeous piece that spans the whole spectral range and has a wide dynamic range. Really intricate details from all the instruments involved too.
Its a beautiful way to experience a new set of speakers and also to dial in the balance on the EQ.
Immediately followed by the Nurture album by Porter Robinson
But the FLAC version I have, obviously.
That album is a masterpiece, as far as I’m concerned. I will never tire of it, and it really gives my speakers a workout.
Big fan of 65daysofstatic ever since No Man’s Sky
Lindsey Stirling – Crystallize.
Tells me if I set up bass and upper frequencies correctly.
Prodigy - Light Up The Sky. Or anything else by then really.
Tiptoe Through the Tulips.
The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald by Gordon Lightfoot.
Nah, I’m just kidding. For real, Come Into Me by The Mavericks.
