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Yes, indeed they can

Congratulations on passing your critical listening test. Every component in the signal path, and many in shunt positions or the power supply, can affect the sound.

I have experimented with a dozen or more types of resistors in my own power amps and active filters. The resistor that affects the sound the least is called a Z-foil naked Vishay. It is crazy expensive for something as simple as a resistor, but it is the ultimate in purity and accuracy, if that's what you really want. You cannot buy them at Mouser, but only from parts specialists such as Parts Connexion or the manufacturer, Texas Components.

As a general rule, carbon film resistors tend to smooth out details while presenting a more musical sound. Metal film resistors are more accurate, but can contribute to stridency, especially if they have magnetic leads or end caps, as most cheap parts do. Of the mass market stuff, I would stick with Vishay/Dale, which are non-magnetic. They cost only a few cents more than the cheapest metal films, and are well worth it. A bit more exotic, but still reasonably priced with very good sound, is PRP, made in USA, which are used by some premier equipment manufacturers. Not sold at Mouser, but at Parts Connexion and Sonic Craft. Yet another step up would be Caddock MK series. There are plenty of others, but these are the basic, best value parts. The "best" resistor does not always sound the best at every place in a circuit. It is a lot of fun to buy a few different types of the same resistance and experiment. Resistors take only a few minutes to break in, so your testing can proceed rapidly. You will be surprised by how much one tiny part can affect your system.

Peace,
Tom E

berate is 8 and benign is 9

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