"Ian S" wrote in message
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Consumer Reports (et al) is probably okay for appliances but
worthless for discerning the differences in serious audio or other
things requiring a higher level of discretion. This applies to some
simple things as well.

So they are OK for rating "appliances" but not simple things? Is a TV an
appliance? How is "serious audio" defined?

They rate a Sears Craftsman wrench the same as a
Snap-On for example. One is a mediocre product that meets a minimum
federal buying spec the other is pretty close to the best that can be
built for its intended purpose. Since their tests only determine
whether or not they met a specification, both are equal.

Consumers Union develops its own tests and subjects the tested items to
the
same test. Frequently, testing involves a test to failure. In addition,
products are evaluated on the basis of cost so that a product with the
same
performance but cheaper will rank higher. My response to the O.P. was in
reference to TV displays. Perhaps you could read the report in question
and
determine specifically where it is deficient. I know "audiophiles" poo-poo
CU's tests of audio equipment probably because they don't generally test
the
boutique components that audiophiles drool over.

A Craftsman
wrench is suited for its intended purpose but it is not as good as a
Snap-On, it's as simple as that.

I've used both Craftsman and Snap-On wrenches. Although the Snap-On wrench
is prettier, I don't see that it's better in any meaningful way, and it
certainly doesn't have a better warranty.

Norm Strong