What gear do measure all else against, i.e. what's your reference?

Much of the equipment available to us impart a degree of it's own character on our audio, whether considered beneficial or otherwise. So what do you guys use as a reference point, or say, a pallet cleanser in assessing new gear? Would you consider it neutral or is there a different primary characteristic you use for comparison?

 

There are a few sat in references like HD600 , Yamaha NS10, SET amps and vinyl that most experienced gear nuts have had some experience with. Most long time members here agree on most points on sound when tracing gear under assessment back to these legendary devices.

1. I take HD650 or HD800 for ultimate references for hp comparisons.
2. *EC 2A3 as hp amp reference.
3. **Genelec 8050A as speaker reference.
4. *Yggdrasil as source reference.

*There are probably better performing units available, but as for now these are my top references.
**I have heard better speakers, but I know what are the limitations on mine vs the better ones I've heard.

 

Agree on HD600 as a neutral-as-can-be reference. For amps the SPL Phonitor does the same for me ... ruthlessly revealing without any embellishment. I normally have a couple of DAC's around but if I had to choose a reasonably priced reference source it would be the NAD M51.

For more specific aspects of reproduction I may choose other kit, e.g. HD800 for imaging and transient response, LCD-2 for bass extension and definition.