Hi-Fi Battle

A relevant factor in the long-playing record vs. compact disc debate is the type of music being played (MUSIC, Aug. 25). The average listener tends to play music that is produced in the studio. Music that has never had a live performance is not likely to suffer from the synthetic nature of the CD. Serious hi-fi listeners, on the other hand, are more likely to revel in live classical and jazz performances. This music cries out for realism, ambience and imaging (the accurate placement of instruments relative to one another). The LP currently has an edge in these qualities.

Ken Phelps

Ladysmith, B.C.

Most people cannot invest thousands of dollars in stereo gear, yet want to enjoy their favorite artists on records that give them clear sound. The compact disc has finally made that a reality. As the price of the players and CD's drop, more people will be enjoying the simplicity of listening to music without the noisy negatives of LP's. The marketplace will definitely decide in favor of this newer, more elegant technology.

Ian Barondess

Tarzana, Calif.

! Why should I spend nearly $3,000 for a turntable that still has problems, like warped and off-center records? The sound produced by the compact discs may not be impeccable, but with proper care CD's will last for 10,000 plays, while LP's will at most survive 100 plays before record wear takes over.

Raymond Chuang

Sacramento