First, do you believe any of the reviews done by the magazines? They have been so biased for decades and even getting worse. When was the last time you have seen a negative review? Never! Most reviews end in “the best I have had in my system”. I’m just elevating what other people have said in other posts that I agree with.
As for comparing to a prior release, they use their memory or notes which you can’t or shouldn’t do.
I would like to see a real review when they compare like components and they rate them best, 2nd best, 3rd best, etc.. Exactly what occurs in other hobby magazines.
For example, most car mags have no issues giving a $300k car a 2nd place rating. There is always a better product wether you are using your ears or your hands and legs.