Back in the 70's when we had Stereo Review and High Fidelity, I would regularly read the equipment reviews and look at all the specs to see who had the best numbers and try to make my choices accordingly.
These days, I'm inclined to take a selection of familiar recordings and just let my ears be the judge. Trust your ears
These days, I'm inclined to take a selection of familiar recordings and just let my ears be the judge. Trust your ears