Interesting discussion. But it seems like an effort to label or create a logical construct around a set of observations that are ultimately difficult to properly frame - an exercise where words and definitions ultimately fall even shorter than our attempts to build empirical tests of ethereal and very subtle (or not) sonic differences resluting (or not) from artistic and sometimes tortured implementations of different electron paths, that most members of the "public" could not, or care not to be able decipher. For an extreme example, take the construct(s): "God gave me two ears, and I hear a difference." Verify that! Or, "Professional audio reviewer's opinions on (-add your accessory of choice HERE _______) are always correct because they know more about hifi gear than the 'Public'." Neither of these statements are verifiable, but both somewhat relevant in the context of the audiophile experience related to cables and tweaks.
Speaking of reviewers, it is interesting that this topic comes up now, since there is another thread nearby on Agon asking about the most enjoyable audio magazine. This made me think about the "Lake Wobegon Effect" as it might apply to hifi reviewing - whereby all gear that is evaluated turns out to be "above average", including the power cords, cables and the tweaks of topic here. With respect to verificationism, this makes me want to take the "Ronald Reagan Approach" and to "Trust but Verify" when it comes to shopping based on reviewer advice.
PS - I was trained as a scientist but now fall more in the camp of the "subjective empiricist."
Speaking of reviewers, it is interesting that this topic comes up now, since there is another thread nearby on Agon asking about the most enjoyable audio magazine. This made me think about the "Lake Wobegon Effect" as it might apply to hifi reviewing - whereby all gear that is evaluated turns out to be "above average", including the power cords, cables and the tweaks of topic here. With respect to verificationism, this makes me want to take the "Ronald Reagan Approach" and to "Trust but Verify" when it comes to shopping based on reviewer advice.
PS - I was trained as a scientist but now fall more in the camp of the "subjective empiricist."