So it’s a pretty simple concept really. Most seasoned audiophiles I know, and a lot of them are here on audiogon, in addition to their love for music and good sound are also avid gearheads. I like to know what’s in the box. I like reading about different design philosophies and even more importantly I like to hear it all. Try it in my system.
At some point your system and room begin to gel and while differences between some components or cables are not earth shattering they’re pivotal in achieving the ultimate sound quality where the components and cables just get out of the way and you stop using music to evaluate equipment and start enjoying it. it’s actually a great feeling. Not an easy goal to accomplish in this hobby.
Keep in mind human brain is pretty complex and it just doesn’t interpret the information the same way oscilloscope or any other type of instrument does. If it was that simple we wouldn’t have Stradivarius and Guarneri, or Gibson and Fender, or Steinway and Bosendorfer.