Blind Listening Tests?


I would like help locating any articles or studies on the subject of blind listening tests as it relates to high end audio equipment. I realize this is akin to blasphemy for many who are into this hobby, however, the more times I read of people claiming to hear audible differences between certain components and system set-ups, the more skeptical I become.(e.g. equipment racks ,interconnects,etc.)The fact that virtually every major audio publication is so adamently against the idea only adds to my skepticism.

Before I invoke the wrath of this site's faithful, let me clarify that I am not doubting the sincerity of those who claim to hear sonic differences between certain components. However, believing that an audible difference exists when one knows that he is listening to a piece of equipment that is generally well regarded or made by a well respected manufacturer is entirely different from being able to detect the difference in a blind listening scenario. Given the undisputed connection between the mind and our perceptions, why is there so much sentiment against such tests? Couldn't the results of such testing be simply another piece of information that we could factor in to our purchasing decisions. It seems to me that those who are so sure of ther critical listening ability (i.e. all stereophile reviewers) should not hesitate to prove their skills.

I look forward to any help in directing me to more information on the subject.Thanks, Don.
dtittle

Showing 6 responses by avguygeorge

Garfish:..... Have we progressed to Triple-blind-testing now?
Detlof: ......I neutralized the minuses/ was that a good thing? It was good for me.
Jadem6:...... Outstanding novel. Even Woddy Allen,Marty Scorse,James Cameron et al;have to cut / I'll wait till the movie comes out. Is that a coincidence? / I think not.
Well,I was trying to get Ray Charles;or Stevie Wonder to come over but they had plans.Listening is so subjective; what care I if someone likes "this" over "that"? Most of "my" listening is done while I'm here. No "head in a vise" for me. I wished I could have voted for Cwlondon's post 10x's.I just got a new/used amp;I'm not listening in a frozen state of attention;things just jump out and smack me in the ears(differences)/and make me stop typing and "suck-me-in". I can clearly hear what is bettered;and what is not.(CJ 5 vs Jadis 7 mk 4.) I could hear these differences blindfolded/ or if I were deaf(probably am).I'm not insecure enough (in this area) to have need for the blindfold, (yet).
Oh,I forgot/ the last test I took: I studied for hours on end. I only got a C- on my urine test. Sorry, I just want to poke some fun here. I don't think listening to music has to be that complicated. Yes, I have room treatments, power cords,isolation bases and the like. Don't you dare remove or exchange any one of these while I'm away ;I'll drive myself crazy trying to figure out what happened.
Mr drubin: I guess "both",but who wants their shortcomings pointed out to them?(nobody I know) Mr Dittli,yes the mags like to tweak us;and yes we must listen for ourselves/with our own equipment.This is not a firing squad/ must we be blindfolded?
Jostler,I enjoyed your wizardry,and voted it as such. Now what want to know; should I be blindfolded,when I click my heels? Or do I also need to do the 6 women thing? Does that need to be done blindfolded also?Does the blindfold go on them? According to all my many "friend"---Yes
"Not related to anyone who would claim me" Reminds me : /when I was 3or 4;our family moved. It took 3 or 4 months but I found them. Jaydem6, Who says we injoyed your post? About the recent 20 rats;we ALL believe you. "Coincidence? I truly think, (not)" This is actually 100xs better than "My speakers kill your speakers" Thanks,JD. Good ride!!