let me add the obvious:
take 2 audiophiles, 1 stereo system and 2 digital cables. place them in a room and have them compare the two cables.
there is a chance that they will agree on what they are hearing but they may disagree on which they prefer.
there is a chance that they will disagree on what they hear but agree on their preferences
there are two other obvious possibilities.
so what's the point.
there is no definitive answer to the question posed, because, perception and preference may differ among audiophiles.
in the empirical world, just listen and decide for yourself. it's not an original thought.
take 2 audiophiles, 1 stereo system and 2 digital cables. place them in a room and have them compare the two cables.
there is a chance that they will agree on what they are hearing but they may disagree on which they prefer.
there is a chance that they will disagree on what they hear but agree on their preferences
there are two other obvious possibilities.
so what's the point.
there is no definitive answer to the question posed, because, perception and preference may differ among audiophiles.
in the empirical world, just listen and decide for yourself. it's not an original thought.