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
I did some blind testing while shopping for a big screen tv recently,and i definitly thought the pioneer elite had suprior sound to the toshiba,but in the end i told the salesman the pictures were both toooooo dark.
Garfish:..... Have we progressed to Triple-blind-testing now?
Detlof: ......I neutralized the minuses/ was that a good thing? It was good for me.
Jadem6:...... Outstanding novel. Even Woddy Allen,Marty Scorse,James Cameron et al;have to cut / I'll wait till the movie comes out. Is that a coincidence? / I think not.
George, shall I get some more, to make you feel even better? Glad to and thanks!
Just a quick thank-you to all who have expressed there enjoyment of my post, it's nice to see we can have a little fun without taking our selves too seriously. I doubt too many of you will believe this, but the 20 rats exposed to designer cords were found in my lab this morning when I came in to clean up. It seems they let themselves in through the air conditioning vent and were able to assemble a very crude electronic synthesizer. The twenty of them were working as a team (orchestra of sorts) and producing the most incredible variation of Mozart's "First Movement (Allegro) from Sonata No.15 in C Major". Coincidence, Oh I truthfully think not! J.D.

Sorry Dekay, I'm not actually related to anyone who would claim me.
"Not related to anyone who would claim me" Reminds me : /when I was 3or 4;our family moved. It took 3 or 4 months but I found them. Jaydem6, Who says we injoyed your post? About the recent 20 rats;we ALL believe you. "Coincidence? I truly think, (not)" This is actually 100xs better than "My speakers kill your speakers" Thanks,JD. Good ride!!