Blind Power Cord Test & results

The problem with a/b testing in a controlled group is forgetting what was heard previously. Take another example: if you a/b tested digital cameras or photo printers and you laid out all the samples in front of people they would easily be able to discern differences (provided they're not color blind, which is another factor - physiology). The greens are a little lighter, the reds are more vibrant, etc. However, if you handed out the photos one at a time, the results would be different. You may be able to recall differences with each succeding photo - but two, three or four down the line and you lose your frame of reference. Even if you observe each photo for an extended period of time, you still will forget.

Not the same with audio. You cannot listen to many power cables (or whatever) at the SAME time. You have to rely on your memory to discern differences since you are evaluating in succession. However, with the photo example above, just as professional photographers and graphic artists will be able to discern much more subtle color differences than the untrained eye, we can discern subtle sonic differences because of our listening experience or "training". But regardless of how good we discern sound (or color), relying on memeory is anything but accurate. And many times, we can only perceive the most subtle of differences only after living with a component for an extended period of time.

Nonsense, this a/b'ing IMO.

Quad made a very unique device for testing componentry in a direct A vs B mode, but it doesn't work like a typical ABX type box. This device actually allows you to insert another preamp or amp in series with your existing system and switch it in and out, either in a controlled fashion for blind testing or at random, for double blind testing. This allows one to see whether the addition of another component alters the performance of the system, in what way it alters it, how stable the circuitry is as the system is changed, if the differences are both audible and repeatable, etc... From what i understand, there were only three of these devices made. I'm been working on picking one of these up for some time, it's just a matter of hooking up with the owner of this item. Sean
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Yes, A/B comparisons are nonsense. That's why researchers studying hearing--in academia, in telecom, and even in audio--use A/B comparisons. They are trying to sabotage their own research and ensure that they will come up with meaningless results. But they're just professionals. We amateurs know better.

Both long term listening and A/B comparisons are an attempt to decide if there is a difference and if that change is worth implementing on a permanent basis. For those who don't trust themselves or NEED A/B testing (for whatever reason), I say go for it.

I always know what is being changed because I do my own testing, usually with a group of friends who vote on the results.

Many times the outcome is not what any of us expected, so the learning process remains intact and we all evolve our systems based on priority and what we can afford.

The topic of A/B is banned at Audio Asylum and I understand why. These discussions (particularly blind A/B discussions), typically follow the same evolution as this thread. Pointless arguments that do nothing to improve our systems.

Albertporter...As I am sure you know, there is another explanation for why audiophiles dislike A vs B, and why it is banned at AA.