We have other threads that get into "Can we hear a difference?" type questions, the biggest one about amps, located HERE. So this thread is not asking the question "Can we hear a difference?", but asks the following question:
How can one learn to listen for and hear the differences between Amps, DACs, Preamps, Processors, Media File Bit Rates and Resolutions, Cables, and audio components in general?
Here are the assumptions for the thread:
Then here we go...
First question: Are the assumptions fair?
If so, second question: How does someone get started listening for these differences?
Edit: The original assumptions for this thread have been changed to be consistent with normal posting guidelines for HTS posting. This thread is open to all discussion pertinent to the subject of the thread.
How can one learn to listen for and hear the differences between Amps, DACs, Preamps, Processors, Media File Bit Rates and Resolutions, Cables, and audio components in general?
Here are the assumptions for the thread:
- All suggestions are welcome, but the focus should be on systematic approaches by those who believe they have proven, reliable methods for hearing these differences.
- Minimizing variables will be a top priority. If Amp "A" sounded like this in one system/room and sounded like that in another system/room three months later, that experience seems suspect. Comparison methods that emphasize control of variables will be appreciated.
- Auditory memory can be addressed. How does one be sure one's memory of a sound is reliable?
- If possible, please try to suspend disbelief for this discussion. I admit that I cannot hear these differences, but if it is possible to develop the skill, I would like to be able to. So this is a teaching and learning and exploration thread. However, valid counter-arguments and sanity checks are also welcome.
Then here we go...
First question: Are the assumptions fair?
If so, second question: How does someone get started listening for these differences?
Edit: The original assumptions for this thread have been changed to be consistent with normal posting guidelines for HTS posting. This thread is open to all discussion pertinent to the subject of the thread.