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Techniques for isolating and comparing a component upgrade or change

Recently, I've changed my turntable mat from a leather mat to an acrylic mat.  I was wondering what techniques members try to compare sound of one item vs. another?  My approach is to minimize as much change as possible other than the item upgraded which entails same, components, same room, same music selection.  

Ideally a dual set up with an A/B switch between the two identical set ups might be nice, but not very practical for most situations.  In my case I'm playing the same music track with one mat; then switching mats and playing the same single track.  I then progress to playing a full album side and switching mats again.  

With a change so subtle I struggle to find real difference between the two; I think I hear more clarity with one and then I'm not sure. Is there another way to measure small changes that an alternative mat may produce?  An approach that might work for comparing other small changes like new cables or other components?

My system is detailed in my profile.  And yes, I've considered that there is no difference or that I'm overthinking this one 😉

 

128x128socalml528
socalml528's avatar
socalml528 OP
138 posts
 

Cogent and practical advice, thanks @noromance 

elliottbnewcombjr
5,471 posts
 

HOW are you seeing member's virtual systems? I click on member's name, no link appears like it used to.

socalml528's avatar
socalml528 OP
138 posts
 

My system

bigby
155 posts
 

Right click on members name, click on open link in new tab.  Systems are first listing under users name.

ghdprentice
7,047 posts
 

Nice system and room.

My technique for evaluation is to do a couple quick comparisons, back and forth, just to see if anything sticks out.

 

Then to get serious. Put the on new thing in and leave it for a couple weeks… absolutely paying no attention. Let your subconscious experience the music. Then, swap back the old one… and go back to listening to music (not for changes). You will become aware during listening to the old.
 

I find swapping to the old is the most telling, unless there are huge differences. Write it down. Listen for a week or two… switch. You should be able to sense and describe really subtle differences this way.

Unless there are big differences… quick A - Bing is hard. Your minds eye has one specific focal point… you have to flit around perceiving stuff… but listening to music let’s your subconscious (~ 95% of your brain power) assess the sound in its entirety.

 

 

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