ABX is not DBT's Siamese twin
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Yes, ABX is "one of several Kinds" of DBT or a "subset" of DBT.
Proposed and so intended by A, Krueger. Whatever you say. Offhand I too
can propose 25 more "subsets" with nice initials. The question you
don't even attempt to address is "Has it been researched to
validate it as a test for uncovering differences between audio
components? Where? When?"
No, it hasn't, nor was it ever intended to. All DBT can ever do is
uncover audible differences in 2 signals. The equipment generating the 2
signals can be wildly different, but if there's no audible difference, DBT
will not uncover it. When the statement is made that all decent
amplifiers sound the same, what is meant is that the differences between
audible outputs is small enough that it cannot be reliably distinguished
by ear. What it does NOT mean is that the signals are identical, or that
you will be equally happy with either component.
How about long term satisfaction? Just because you fail to uncover
differences in a DBT does not rule out differences that will show up only
after prolonged listening. If this is really true, it can be easily
proven by running the DBT after the time when the difference appears to
show up. If nobody can pass a DBT under any circumstances, no matter how
familiar they are with the sound of the components in question, then I'm
afraid I'll have to say that they sound the same. You may be happier with
one than the other, but it isn't because of sound.
Norm Strong
That's an interesting test that comes closer to the root of the matter.
However, there is one further test, the only one that would satisfy me. Put
the DUTs in equal size, equal weight black boxes. Leave them at the
subject's house, so that he can switch them at a whim. No fancy testing
gear, no switches. Just indistinguishable containers.
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