I wonder about the origin of the audiophile myth of golden ears.
In my experience, the differences we hear, the quality of the music played on our systems are immediately obvious to any and all newcomers. I have never had anyone tell me they couldn't hear "the difference" we bring to the table.
So why are we labeled golden eared? What is it that makes us appear to have special powers of audio observation?
Indeed, I have been with people I would consider as having golden ears. Listeners so astute at their craft they can pinpoint problems and point to probable causes.
But do most audiophiles have greater sonic acuity than your average consumer of audio?
I think not. I believe what the difference is that audiophiles have been exposed to better sound and know the difference between the drek foisted off on consumers vs. what good sound can offer.
We have been exposed to what music can sound like when properly reproduced.
That's a golden experience.
