Even expert engineers are biased by non-auditory factors in loudspeaker evaluation

Evidence

In Harman I created a corporate research group that conducted controlled, double-blind subjective evaluations to confirm that there was subjective acceptance of many of the products being sold. A few very experienced loudspeaker engineers resented having their judgment questioned, even though measurements indicated that their designs were not consistent. An elaborate blind vs. sighted test demonstrated just how compelling non-auditory factors were in the formation of opinions. Experience and confidence in one’s opinions did not matter, everyone was susceptible to bias (see Section 10.1). — Toole, Floyd E, Sound reproduction- the acoustics and…, 1418

Categorization

• XREF: Connects to the reader’s prior interest in controlled experimental methodology; touches on bias and perceptual evaluation paralleling halo-effect research.