"The Audio Critic" B.S. or what?

I do not see anything wrong with blind testing, but I do not believe that it is an "end all." No two people perceive reality in exactly the same fashion IMO. And since it all boils down to personal taste anyway (since we do not all share a common system), I again say "what's the big deal." I do not nit pick when it comes to my opinions on gear. What purpose would it serve as we all hear and judge differently. The most a review/opinion can give me is the "general" characteristics of a piece of equipment. The fine points are left (as always) to my discretion. Taking into consideration how much the listening room, system synergy and even the shape of our ears (both internal and external) affect the sound, just exactly how accurate can any review/opinion be? When you also take into consideration the inter working of the individual mind, "get out of town" with the fine details. These details are most likely yours and yours alone, or theirs and theirs alone. Carl noted how different music sounds when we listen with our eyes closed. Yes, it sounds way different IMO. There are too many variables involved to achieve an accurate "anything" that can be used by those of us that are trying to push the envelope, so to speak. These types of reviews and opinions are entertaining to read, but they are not gospel, not in my book anyway.

PS: I stopped subscribing to the mags over 20 years ago. With the advent of the Internet, I much prefer the varied opinions from forums such as this.

Well stated, DK. To add to that thought, an important aspect of these tests not yet broached in this discussion is the severe polarization of the camps. Naysayers with unswayable opinions are so prevalent that it's actually surprising the discussion herein has been so civil. (But then, you guys never cease to amaze!) Even if a manufacturer were to undertake a blind or double-blind test using the most stringent of controls, and they probably have, publication of the results would undoubtedly be welcomed with cries of "improper methodology" and "no validity". It's a no win situation.

I think the thing that we audiophiles should remember is that this hobby can be enjoyable. Really! I know first hand. It can be whatever we choose it to be. I seek my own pleasure from it, and do not worry what others believe(or hear) or don't. I invest in my own tastes, and if someone heard my system and thought it was the most God awful noise producer in the world, I would care not a bit. Different people focus on different things. My favorite thought about life is that's why they make vanilla AND chocolate(and more these days). The goal is there for all of us to reach. Whether you are an objectivist or someone who only trusts their ears, think all amps sound the same or not, or whatever... Happy listening.

In medical research, "double blind" studies are the "gold standard." For example, this is where neither the researcher nor the patient are aware of whether they are giving/receiving the researched drug or a placebo. This eliminates prejudicial judgements. Double blind testing in audio could/should be unneccessary as long as the "helper" is not giving any hints and is completely fair/impartial with the set up of the a-b comparison. Charlie