Don't get it, why anyone would ask others "what sounds best"?

It all sounds pointless.  I think I will quit.

People are generally divided into two camps: accurate and musical.  I'm in accurate camp.  People who prefer musical (warm sounding) gear don't like accurate gear calling it "sterile" and "analytical".  Many years ago somebody on this forum asked how to make sound warmer with less (!!!) resolution (I recommended placing blankets over the speakers).  I can imagine that some people might even like a little bit of noise or distortion, because it makes sound appear more "dynamic".  No right or wrong here, but making statements or asking for the "best" is plain silly.

Although asking what is best isn't that helpful, asking what something sounds like is helpful. I am sure many will disagree with me, but when I wanted to upgrade my speakers last year, I asked about several brands and it helped me avoid ones I knew I would not like. For instance, Brand A (and this isn't a thread about specific brands) I was told by everyone who had them that they were detailed and "bright" and they loved them, with another Brand B all the owners said they were laid back and perhaps not that great for rock, but they loved them also. Is it possible I might have loved Brand A or Brand B? Possible, but to me it saved me time and perhaps even having to order some and then ship them back.
It's always nice to try before you buy, like at some ice cream stores that has those little pink spoons to try, but some stores don't let you. Flannel Ice Cream? Now I know to try it before buying a cup of it....  

because they want to know... and are worried they cannot determine the answer on their own

It all sounds pointless. I think I will quit.

Likewise - off to a more entertaining thread. :-)