BrianovichIV
Head-Fier
There's nothing to "prove" when it comes to subjective preference. Subjective preference simply is what it is. There's nothing to argue, and that sort of stuff is what the other forums are for.
But if you say something sounds better to you, and then either state directly or heavily imply that it sounds better because of some actual audible difference between the two things, then that's something entirely different. And in that case, you need to substantiate that claim. Either by showing measurable differences that are within known thresholds of audibility, or lacking that, show the results of properly controlled listening tests.
You can't just say "I heard it! Just listen for yourself! If you can't hear it then you're either deaf or have crappy equipment."
That doesn't fly here. That's not science. That's just vanity and ego and foot stomping. And if you expect that to fly, you're in the wrong place.
However I will say that I would much prefer if some here would say "that hasn't been shown to be audible" rather than "that's impossible." The emphasis should always be on the person substantiating their claims rather than simply saying they're wrong.
se
I agree with all that. It's mostly just placebo.
However, I believe that a placebo effect can still be meaningful to a listener and enhance their enjoyment. If a person believes a cable, or battery, or power supply, or 24bit track is better, and it increases their enjoyment, then it really does. And good for them! It's their money.
But that person probably shouldn't be discussing this in the sound science forum. Or maybe, definitely shouldn't
I think my music sounds better when I listen to FLACs instead of lossy. My brain knows that's not true. But it makes my listening experience better. And it doesn't really hurt anyone.
But you won't see me trying to convince people that FLACs are better.