I popped onto a marvelous piece of acappella music (https://www.facebook.com/Musicianary/videos/2022499804432042/) reading through Facebook. As I am listening, I can hear the bass singing away, comfortably making a foundation for the other three parts.
I moved my computer away from the speaker system that I use to give full-bodied sound for my listening pleasure. I played the song again. The small speakers could not take the extended vocal range. I just heard a trio singing.
Much vocal music that we listen to today is only in the higher frequencies. Trio parts are featured. Seldom do you hear a good bass voice.
Did the transition to three part harmony come because of poor speakers on computers, or . . . ??