There is a wide divide between believing and knowing, at least there is for me.
As @analogluvr points out:
In my experience, I have learned that my audio memory is suspect (if I am only going by it) and it becomes progressively problematic the longer the time between event A and event B.
I've learned this by evaluating my gear with direct and repeated comparisons across (nearly all) of my system changes. It's really hard work, but the rewards are significant and the growth and learning well worth it and in some cases priceless.
I say this despite being intimately familiar with my system and having spent thousands of hours with it.
My advice to members is to test and question yourself and your approach to audio more vigorously than your gear.
As @analogluvr points out:
There is always a need for a/b comparisons.
In my experience, I have learned that my audio memory is suspect (if I am only going by it) and it becomes progressively problematic the longer the time between event A and event B.
I've learned this by evaluating my gear with direct and repeated comparisons across (nearly all) of my system changes. It's really hard work, but the rewards are significant and the growth and learning well worth it and in some cases priceless.
I say this despite being intimately familiar with my system and having spent thousands of hours with it.
My advice to members is to test and question yourself and your approach to audio more vigorously than your gear.