This sounds like something we see in super best audio friends forum. They stick with subjective methods claiming that it is not possible to establish a reference.
In THD+N vs. frequency plot only one output level is used. So, I guess, someone can argue that the THD+N vs. frequency curve will be completely different for a different output level etc.
Most published measurements including the ones from @amirm have the following measurements in most cases.
FFT @ 1kHz sine
Frequency response
THD+N vs power plot @ 1kHz
SMPTE or CCIF plot
Output and input impedance
Let’s say there is a device that measures very well below the hearing thresholds...
With my question I was referring to commonly published measurements (like this or this) of individual devices by manufacturers or independent people like @amirm. Can those measurements accurately predict the performance of the given device when it is connected with other devices with real music...
Many subjectivists argue that measurements can not capture the audio quality of an AMP or a DAC.
We can accept that there are lot of variables that come into play when measuring a device. Input level, input signal (1kHz sine/CCIF tones/SMPTE tones etc), gain/output level, load resistance are...
If you don't hear a difference with with HD 58X you wont hear a difference with HD 650 when the volume is matched assuming both HD58X and HD 650 have the same resolution capabilities don’t you think?
Exactly. Adding to that inter modulation distortions, multi tone distortions and distortions at different frequencies and power levels. Cross talk.
Has @amirm or anyone measured the audio performance of day to day devices like iPhones and Macbooks? They will be a very good baseline for many...