a/b interconnect cable comparison single ended

Thanks Sean and John,going to try that,cheers,Bob

question,
Why would it be better to use the tape loop circuit instead of using two line inputs as I suggested earlier in my post. Switching from one line input to the other, for an A/B comparison?
Thanks, jim

Jea48: Using the tape loop allows one to use their existing set-up and simply switch the interconnects in and out of the system instantaneously. No need to remove, replace, reconnect, etc... All of this at a flip of a switch WITHOUT altering the load impedances by running cabling in parallel to two different input jacks. Sean
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Using rapid A/B comparisons I get some info, but not a complete data set.

With the theory that difference is not always better (or worse) I find I obtain more useful info by putting a given cable into the system and living with it for a while (days). Then take it out and put in the comparator and listen over a couple of days. I keep doing this until the one I want to live with emerges. If you feel a need to do this blind get a buddy or a kindly spouse to help. (Just don't peek!)

Sometimes a difference is initially disconcerting; sometimes the unfamilar is initally attractive. Long term satisfaction is what you really want.

On the other hand, to the extent you have a 'gold standard' as a comparitor, rapid testing can help find DUTs that are simliar in sound. Otherwise your comparisons lack a control. John's method (using cable 'c') does account for this. I also agree with Sean... any change you introduce, other than the variable you want to test, may confound your results.

So I keep it simple. Out with one, in with the other. Reverse, repeat. Works well for me.

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Sean posts:

Jea48: Using the tape loop allows one to use their existing set-up and simply switch the interconnects in and out of the system instantaneously. No need to remove, replace, reconnect, etc... All of this at a flip of a switch WITHOUT altering the load impedances by running cabling in parallel to two different input jacks. Sean

Sean I know the tape loop method will allow easy switching back and forth, but is it a true A/B comparison. Is the signal path and switching contacts of the tape loop cicuit the same as the line inputs signal path and switching contacts of the preamp? And are you not putting the two ics in series with one another when using the tape loop.

Please explain what you meant about using my method, of connecting two sets of cables connected to two different line inputs on a preamp, being parallelled and could effect the load impedance. My Arcam Alpha 9 CDP has two line out outputs. I have in the past installed two sets of ics to two sets of line inputs on my Sonic Frontiers Line one preamp and switch from one input to the other. When I switch from one input to the other, doesn't the input that is not connected to the CDP open and there for there is not any signal flow thru that pair of ics?
jim