CardinalFang;142449 Wrote: 
> Deviation from accurate reproduction can be measured. Listening tests
> are really just confirmation of a design or a substitute for more
> careful measurements.

You make an important non-sequitur here.  There are several factors to
consider:

- All audible differences can theoretically be measured.  Your ears can
do it, so some machine can too - I agree with you here.

- Ears may be more sensitive than any machines currently in existence. 
Witness jitter: no-one knew how to measure CD players in 1985 - they
measured perfect, but sounded rubbish.

Your audio system is a compromise and it is your decision (by what you
buy) as to how you are going to compromise.  There is rarely a
definitive 'this is a more accurate' direction in which you can move
with the next purchase, especially once your system reaches a high
level.  You are moving from one compromise to another; you can either
choose to believe your ears or some measurements as to which is the
best.

I strongly agree with your assertion that designers should be able to
demonstrate (with measurement) why their products are superior, but I
feel that the final arbiter should be the most sensitive audio
measurement device of all - your ears.

But is it just audio that has the mystique?  A Van Gogh is hardly an
accurate portrayal of a vase of sunflowers, but I'd prefer one on my
wall to a photo!

Adam


-- 
adamslim

SB3 and Shanling CDT-100, Rotel RT-990BX, Esoteric Audio Research 859,
Living Voice Auditorium IIs, Nordost cables
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