The character of analog and digital

Sns

”seems one would always have to be in analytical listening mode to depreciate either format”

Very well put

I completely agree that both formats are capable of excellent sound and I do agree that the topic gets old…. for a variety of reasons. However, preferring one over the other, or simply recognizing the differences, and they do exist, does not mean one is “depreciating” anything. It is simply an acknowledgment of a perception. More importantly, recognizing and/or acknowledgment of this in no way has to mean less appreciation of the music. Isn’t this what this hobby is all about?

So, are we to conclude that any discussion about differences in cables, tweaks and other gear, differences that are often on the same level of nuance, is pointless? Moreover, the OP specifically addresses the issue of the perceived differences in character of the two formats. So, if there is so much aversion to discussing this ussue, and no disrespect intended, the question needs to be asked, why bother responding to, even reading, the thread?

When I  brought up the issue it was NOT my intention to determine which format was better, merely to compare them.  I guess, however, it was inevitable that an argument would ensue.

Argument? Difference of opinion perhaps, but no argument.
Let’s not look for one where there isn’t one. Having said that:

**** Therefore it becomes very difficult to make generalizations on which categorically sounds better. ****

You did bring up the issue of which sounds better, rv 😊. I don’t believe it is all that difficult; or am I not allowed to express that opinion given the topic of the thread?  I am good with having what is fact for me, remain opinion for others.