Do we all agree that if we can hear differences between dacs we'd at least LIKE to be able to measure those differences?
we all should verify under correct conditions the heard differences really exist or have a look at measurements to see if issues reach audible limits.
Does anyone disagree that we should be striving to quantify anything we can hear and make it measurable and repeatable, and hopefully less expensive to produce so we can all enjoy the best possible sound at a reasonable price?
It already is. There are even ways to compare DACs by using music.
ASR has already shown that it is very possible to enjoy best possible sound at a reasonable price, even for cheaps. It has also shown that in the high price echelon gems and total crap can be found.
Also, do we all agree that sometimes our perception of what we hear can be strongly affected by our other senses and what we've been told about a situation?
Most will certainly agree. There are quite a lot of people, however, that think just because they know bias exist they are immune to it. Funnily enough these are usually the goldeneared people with the expensive gear that does have enough resolutions to be able to make minute differences audible.
Don't we at least WANT to have a way of testing our own ability to actually hear differences between equipment without other sensory factors influencing us? How would we do this? Why again do some of you feel double blind testing is not effective? What would be the ultimate way to test this?
There are good way to do this. Not knowing what one is listening to and level matching as well as statistically relevant attempts is key.
The problem is that such isn't easy to do and requires taking the time and involving someone else.
Or perhaps we should allow all factors in to our experience and seek the perception of good sound over all else.
That's the method 99% of people uses. Using sighted (meaning they know what is being used) and not or poorly level matched comparisons.
The result is always that you pick one that sounds 'best' under the given circumstances or can't hear a difference and picks the one with the cheapest price, nicest looks or more desirable functionality.
It is the easy way but a very flawed way when it comes to truth finding. Usually they do not care and are convinced they found the best one.
Everyone should use the method they prefer, technically speaking one method blocks bias and is more truthful when done correctly.
With both methods there are pitfalls.