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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
rzado
160 posts
 
The following article addresses the subject of double blind listening as it applies to high-end audio:

C.J. Huss, J. Gordon Holt, Larry Archibald, et.al., "The Highs & Lows of Double-Blind Testing", Stereophile Vol.8 No.5 (May, 1985).

It can be found on the Stereophile web site in the archives section.
drubin
3,240 posts
 
Is it insecurity to need a blind test or is it insecurity to reject or fear such a test?
479058's avatar
479058
105 posts
 
Don: First of all, there is a difference between a "blind test" and an "objective test." All objective tests are blind (double-blind, actually), but not all blind tests are objective. It's still possible to be fooled into thinking a difference exists when you're listening blind. As for references, check out the "official" ABX page:

http://oeonline.com/~dcarlst/abx.htm

It contains background info, plus a list of articles that discuss or use ABX testing.

Your skepticism is quite justified. The primary reason magazines do not do objective testing is that it would leave them with too little to write about. Besides, it would really tick off a whole bunch of advertisers. The exception, of course, is The Audio Critic, which you should also check out.
avguygeorge
2,300 posts
 
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?
garfish
1,840 posts
 
Dtittle; I think in my first response I spelled your name wrong-- sorry, and I looked closer this time. Thanks for your response-- the equipment you have certainly indicates that you are "one of us". I mentioned critical listening skills-- well, they could be very effectively used in blind testing as well as sighted. Avguy, JD you guys crack me up (and I voted accordingly), and I hope humor is never disallowed on Agon. Actually, I flunked my last test Avguy-- too much sugar:>) It's nice to have a polite exchange on this contentious subject. Cheers. Craig.
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