Why is Double Blind Testing Controversial?


I noticed that the concept of "double blind testing" of cables is a controversial topic. Why? A/B switching seems like the only definitive way of determining how one cable compares to another, or any other component such as speakers, for example. While A/B testing (and particularly double blind testing, where you don't know which cable is A or B) does not show the long term listenability of a cable or other component, it does show the specific and immediate differences between the two. It shows the differences, if at all, how slight they are, how important, etc. It seems obvious that without knowing which cable you are listening to, you eliminate bias and preconceived notions as well. So, why is this a controversial notion?
moto_man

Showing 2 responses by judit

Blind testing serves no useful purpose. It presumes that by switching cables in and out of ONE system, that you will uncover something fundamental about the cables. I think not.
Moto man, I do not question the importance of cable comparisons.

What I question and challenge is the notion that an objective BLIND comparison can be set up for audio cables. Without an objective measurable (user perception is not a valid, reproducible measurable), it is not a valid blind test and has no objective validity.

Subjective observations that are presented as "objective" are exactly what lead people like Elmuncy to spend money on things which disappoint.