"Violinists blast holes in violin experiment"

Larry,

My question asks if once you have zeroed in on what the differences between cable A and cable B are, can you identify those differences if you don't know whether you are listening to cable A or cable B?

I am not trying to attack you personaly. I have always been puzzled that audio reviewers can go on for pages about the "jaw dropping" differences between component X and component Y but if you ask them to listen blindly and determine whether they are listening to X or Y they give you all kinds of reasons why blind tests are flawed as they back out the door.

I am not an objectivist. I believe that many differences in components can't be measured yet. Jitter was not observed for years after cd was introduced for instance.

Also, I understand that long term listening in familiar surroundings is the way to determine which components one prefers. But I am puzzled as to why professional reviewers are so opposed to any form of blind testing and just wanted to get your experience with the process. I am not trying to start an argument about blind testing and I hope I don't.

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Whether the Strads are superior instruments or not, that the new instruments are sonically close enough to even have this argument. I think the new instruments have proven that, objectively, the Strads and Guaneris are worth millions more only because of their rarity, not because of their sound is millions better. The sonic gap in new vs old is much narrower than their prices indicate.
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I make custom endpins for cello and bass. Most musicians have trouble hearing a difference between pins, even when there is a 1 db difference in output between 2 pins under audition. This could be caused by their position under the ear and behind the instrument. When someone else plays their instrument and the original player is listening in the audience then that musican can hear the difference immediately.

Also if a violin is under the chin and has or has not a chin rest the instrument will mechanically react with the players skull and facial structure. We don't just listen thru our ears we use many parts of our body to make audible judgments. Tom

**** I think the new instruments have proven that, objectively, the Strads and Guaneris are worth millions more only because of their rarity, not because of their sound is millions better.****

Yes, it is amazing and fortuitous that one could get "close" to the sound of the best for a lot less money. But how does one put a price on the best? To a great artist, having the very best is a no-brainer and easily justifies the expense.

Excellent observations, Theaudiotweak. Thanks for sharing.

Audiotweak, I agree, and apparently the eyes are the most important after the ears. I wonder why some people choose to listen in the dark or with their eyes closed. Doesn't make sense does it?