My point about the comparison is that with BOTH pairs of speakers in the same room, there is MUCH more data available than if the same trusted person were simply auditioning a custom set alone. You have available not only the subjective assessment of the custom speakers but also the subjective assessment of the stock speakers AND the subjective differences between the two. Additional data often increases expectations. Heightened expectations infer an additional burden in assessment and analysis.

Jack, I certainly don't want to disappoint you. And I will respectfully decline your eloquent implied invitation to continue an argument for which I frankly lack both passion and time. We're splitting hairs. This is supposed to be fun.

bibere usque ad hilaritatem