2. misc-audio
  3. 1147409526

do blind tests have any practical significance

do the results of a blind or double tests have any usefulness ?

a blind ab test does not prove anything. it only states facts, namely that a certain percentage of listeners were able to distinguish the sound of one component from another.

there are many issues as to the validity of these tests.

the question, "can a listener detect the sonic difference(s) between components", is never answered definitely by one test.

suppose a blind test is administered 10 or more times to the same group of listeners. assuming the first test is replicated 9 more times, there is a chance that there may be an inconsistency between the outcomes of the test.

suppose a statistically significant percentage, say less than 60 percent, for a large sample of listeners, identifies differences between 2 components, what does that mean ?

what is the application of such a result for a prospective buyer of a component ?
mrtennis
mrtennis OP
3,295 posts
 
a reviewer should be objective when appraising the sonic merits of a component. a reviewer should be an accurate reporter of what he/she hears--no more no less.

it is counter productive for the reviewer to express a sentiment about the component reviewed. just report the facts and leave the biases and persuasion out of the review.
gregm
3,407 posts
 
a reviewer should be an accurate reporter of what he/she hears--no more no less
Quite reasonable. Which of course begs the question, "how well is the system containing the product under review, set up?"...
pawlowski6132
592 posts
 
Nrchy; point taken. It may not be practical. But, I hope you agree with me in theory at least.
btstrg
185 posts
 
Magic Island named vacuum, can I get directions to this place?
Nrchy Thank you!! You added a nice laugh to an otherwise long day!
I still do want directions though, as I am a tube guy.LOL
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,124 posts
 
As a tube guy I don't think you would be welcome on the magic island of Vacuum, you're living in the past!!! : )

MrTennis, People want reviews to be inviting, and so reviewers offer personnal anecdotes to pull the reader in, this is all IMNSHO Ms Kraft did in her review. I could be wrong, since I have not read the review, but I think the attacks on the writer are unwarranted. No one knows the experience or intention of the writer except the writer. To subject her to your prejudices is the worst type of STEREOtype... and to remove all value from this or any other review.

:o
More to discover