Critiques of Equipment

I've done a handfull of blind tests on front-end components with audiophile friends since I started in this hobby back in 85'. The results are not always as expected, but never leave anyone with a shadow of doubt there is a difference in front end components (or any other for that matter). I've always found results to be fairly consistent in terms of descriptions of qualities, but not as consistent in the preferences for individual qualities and components. It can be fun to do. Changes certainly are incremental, and whether they're worth the $ is entirely up to the individual. Synergy can be so easily demonstrated that questioning that just tells me you haven't tried many different combinations, or if you have, you must be hard of hearing. What gets me is the overzealous statements people use to describe the differences as if to justify their superior taste and savvy investment. Get over it! One of the things I've found in doing the A/B/A blind comparison sessions, is that it can be fun on a social level, but it is NOT about enjoying music in the moment, and in fact it tends to take you away from enjoying the music, at least it has for me. I agree, there is no shortage on commentary, but I'd doubt much of it qualifies as being "authorative". I've said it before, it's all subjective. If you can't hear a difference, and or, don't give a rat's derrier, all the power to you...you'll have more time on your hands to enjoy the music!

Marco

It bothers me how some of these threads turn so negative towards one another. It is only a hobby for crying out loud. We need to respect each other and each others opinion.

Chuck

Chuck, I totally agree with you.But for the
most part, there are so many good people here
at Agon.For that I am greatful.

Chuck and Jayctoy, At the risk of sounding paranoid, are your posts directed at the original poster or the responders? A more literal reading would suggest the latter. In that event (only), I would point out that the initial response was very negative in its condemnation of the way folks participate in threads in this forum, and would ask how you would have responded. If I've already read your response to the original thread, please ignor this.

Newbee

Absolutely not, quite the opposite the poster makes an excellent point. I was just making a general comment concerning how emotional some people get when they comment about or critique a piece of equipment. At some point, not always, someone chimes in in disagreement e.g. the thread "what speaker after thiel 7.2". This one turned pretty nasty between a couple of people of which I feel was uncalled for. And jayctoy I am in agreement with you there are far more good people willing to share their experiences in a sane manner than those looking to pick a fight.