Is it possible for something to be the best?

I guess

Since personal opinions are based on subjective qualities, Nrchy's statement about "supported fact" would mean that one could only base "good" or "bad" products on something that was quantifiable i.e. test bench measurements.

Since we all know that:

A) specifications can't give us all the answers with the current testing procedures that we have

and

B) we all hear things slightly differently and have different takes on how things "should" sound

the only logical conclusion would be:

C) there is no way to call ANY audio component "the best". After all, you can never listen to ONE component without their being other influences on how it performs and what you hear. It all operates as a system and should be judged as such. That is why "system synergy" is what matters and NOT what brands / models you use to get there. Bottom line is "does this SYSTEM perform as it should ?". If it doesn't, you might have to change individual components. Changing individual components may effect the system as a whole, but you will never hear that component by itself or know exactly what each piece is contributing to the total presentation. There are just TOO many interactive variables taking place at one time to try to quantify the situation

As such, one should buy & use what works "best" for them in the confines of their system and personal preferences regardless of measurements, brand names or costs. The only constraint to this is that we would obviously all be stuck with "the BEST that i could afford within the confines of my room, system and personal tastes". Sean
>

PS... I've got the "best" system in MY house to MY ears. There is nothing "subjective" about that, as it is pure "fact" and uncontestable : )

Sean, exactly...and undoubtedly it is "musical". (Just to have the last word...(-; ..)

Thanks for the input. This was really an interesting discussion. I am delighted to know that I have the best system and the rest of you will have to catch me even if your system is more expensive and measures better. Oh well, I gotta go there's a beautiful woman singing across the room who deserves my attention.

Nrchy, congrats, you've GOT IT!
Cheers,