Audio Friends Don't Let Audio Friends ...

It's a difficult query to reply to: "So, how does that sound?"

It's comes down to situation and any sort of familiarity with what you've been presented.....the room, the level of equipment, and what was just played.

"Sounds good..." is the soul of basic diplomacy. :)
Beyond that: Smooth road with pitchforks, ;)

Tread careful, J

....adult beverages at a minimum.....adult 'indulgences at ones' preferences...*G*

I would hope my buddy would tell me the honest truth. I actually ask them too, good or bad I want an honest opinion. 

+1

One person's bright enough to make me run screaming from the room is another's nice detail so ask what they think of it and are they happy first.

If they're truly is a friend and asks your opinion regarding a specific aspect of the sound I see no problem with providing a truthful answer within the parameters of taste but only if they ask.

Your friend knows how it sounds much better than you do and unless you live together and if that's the case keep your mouth shut and simply find different aspects to enjoy.  

If it's a competition of their stereo vs your's and you want to trash talk and he / she / they are into that go for it but realize that you have opened the reciprocal door  and be man / woman / non binary enough to take it for what it is... Trash Talk.

I kinda miss all the robot references.