I mean, as long as I'm always using Foobar to convert and Foobar to check DR....I would like to think that the DR being portrayed is apples to apples. Maybe it isn't, I'm no engineer in this field.....It's funny you mention that....there are all kinds of theories about how you really can't measure the DR from vinyl using that method...BUT....even if the numbers aren't exactly correct...they are meaningful because as long as you use the same method for all sources...the difference between them is still evident...but hearing is the biggest vindication....if is sounds better...it is better....and that is the most important part isn't it...the metrics aren't important if it doesn't sound good...
But, yes. Listening does matter. Also, while ripping vinyl, you can watch the waveforms. I know someone said, those waveforms are not really that accurate, but after you do this a while, you can quickly see the peaks and valleys of certain recordings and instantly know that it's going to be good. When it looks like a solid block with no peaks and valleys...well....get ready for smashed audio. Happens every time.