How about a Stereophile reviewer doing his thing - extended listening, over a long period of time, in his reference system, and trying different cables, etc, with the review component, as he sees fit - but he merely doesn't get to SEE the component. Another trusted reviewer will come in to install it, or change the cables, etc. That keeps all the normal advantages of careful, subjective reviewing - but removes the confounding factor of visuals (e.g., thickness of faceplate; weight of amp; reputation/image of brand).
I think that would be great - and would prevent the reviewer from possibly starting with preconceptions (XYZ brand is typically dark-sounding, or etched, whatever).
How about a Stereophile reviewer doing his thing - extended listening, over a long period of time, in his reference system, and trying different cables, etc, with the review component, as he sees fit - but he merely doesn't get to SEE the component. Another trusted reviewer will come in to install it, or change the cables, etc. That keeps all the normal advantages of careful, subjective reviewing - but removes the confounding factor of visuals (e.g., thickness of faceplate; weight of amp; reputation/image of brand).
I think that would be great - and would prevent the reviewer from possibly starting with preconceptions (XYZ brand is typically dark-sounding, or etched, whatever).