"George Middius" wrote in message
...
EddieM said:

The Objectivist assert that straight listening or more specifically,
sighted evaluation is not a scientifically valid process for determining
if the audio components (except speakers ?) would sound different.


What is really wrong with sighted evaluation ?

Objectively speaking, nothing is wrong with it.

It scares the crap out of the 'borgs, though. That's because They might
start to
covet an evil, overpriced piece of "audio jewelry".

Bear in mind that the 'borgs don't really care about audio per se. They
just
like to use the topic to wage their impotent version of class warfare.
Whenever
one of Them starts ranting about "too expensive" this or "snake oil" that,
try
this test: Mentally impute the class envy motive to the 'borg who's
yammering
and then see how your view of Their jabber changes. Usually, you'll find
that
the borgma is demagoguery, frustration, envy, or a combination of those.

In reality, why would anything be wrong with "sighted" evaluation? It's
perfectly Normal. Why try to amputate your emotional response when you're
looking for a toy? It's Normal to maximize your enjoyment of any toy,
audio or
otherwise. If you enjoy looking at something, it renders pleasure, and
that's
good, right? Let the 'borgs lash themselves and wear their hairshirts.
Life is
too short to punish yourself for enjoying your toys.


You are correct. Part of the joy in owning even moderate gear comes from the
visual aspects of design.
I also like the way some of my gear smells. Whatever rocks your boat...

Carl