posted 23 April 2013 17:32            

For example, if one can hear the difference between $10 and $150 interconnects on ones HiFi, I suspect one conning ones self (so long as it is making a good contact and the plugs haven't gone rusty) . One needs to do true blind tests. Plugging them in and listening to the results is not a blind test. Considering that the recorded signal has gone through yards and yards of FST in the recording studio, the last two foot isn't going to make too much of difference.

If you've seen the super HiFi oak spun over priced control knob. It's a conn.

The latest Fad is 96Khz sample rate which will soon be followed by 192 KHz sample rate. Just because the majority of people believe it's going to sounds better doesn't mean it does.

The placebo effect works on hearing as well.

It's not often that you see something on the net that really explains these things in a simple yet detailed way. If you're interested in what really happens to your digital signals, I suggest you watch this video. This chap has got it spot on.
http://www.synthtopia.com/content/2013/03/02/digital-audio-for-geeks/

One thing I would like to point out is that although 24 bit may be be overkill for CDs, 24 bit is very important if you are processing signals (mixing, filtering reverbs etc) as these processes can eat up the bit's. Using less than 24 bit's will reduce your head room and can easily make a noticeable difference to the sound in these conditions.

The video also shows that an algorithmically generated square shaped (with no ripples) square wave, as often used with the Surbiton oscillator is identical to a band limited square wave with the ripples.

I hope this makes sense and doesn't upset too many people.

Pete