The problem with "phase" is that the phase is being changed somewhat (that is: not 180, but perhaps depending on the frequency from -90 to +90 or whatever) by many of the bits and pieces of electronic gear. Look at speaker measurements! the phase shifts with the frequency, (because of the crossover etc) the electronics do some of that too. So being able to really tell what the phase is is a miracle of hearing! (and better equipment.)
Rock and Roll recordings usually have more mixed up phase, because of all the console editing etc.
So just because some folks claim they can hear it, does not mean other (who say they cannot) folks can't. It just means the equipment is messing up the phase so much that polarity cannot be determined by their inexperienced ears!
I used to love planar speakers because the polarity was very obvious. Sound from "in front" of the speakers was correct polarity. Sound from 'behind' was reverse polarity.
Rock and Roll recordings usually have more mixed up phase, because of all the console editing etc.
So just because some folks claim they can hear it, does not mean other (who say they cannot) folks can't. It just means the equipment is messing up the phase so much that polarity cannot be determined by their inexperienced ears!
I used to love planar speakers because the polarity was very obvious. Sound from "in front" of the speakers was correct polarity. Sound from 'behind' was reverse polarity.