Zd542, The idea of observer (in this case "listener") bias is much older than this discussion. It has long been taken as a given in the design of any study that involves opinion or human judgement of any kind and that purports to be "scientific". When you then add the fact that one has paid for the device under scrutiny, the bias factor is only compounded. We are all guilty of it; one cannot divorce one's judgement from subconscious bias. Thus you could say I disagree with your premise that listener bias is not a big factor in the formulation of opinions put forth in this and many other forums. That said, please note that it was not I who claimed that my quote was the quote of the year. Quote of the year was not my goal, but thanks for that, Phil.
I did see that SR has a 30-day return policy. In that case, it cannot hurt to try out a PHT. As I understand it, the PHT is some sort of weak magnet. One might also make a similar device for much less than $200 and give it a try. It is also said to weigh only one milligram, although it appears to be heavier than that. Thus it won't add significantly to effective mass.
Sbayne, I own 5 turntables and about 8 tonearms and 15 or so cartridges. I listen exclusively to vinyl. Digital only if I want to read a book or need background music for a party. OK? One thing I notice as regards Tweaks like this; the early adopters become very defensive and sensitive to criticism of the Tweak per se. It's nothing personal.
