There's some truth and wisdom in this advice, but it leaves out a critical test: side by side, A-B comparisons. Even when two devices share the same IC's, the support circuitry can be different enough to make an audible difference.

Take a friend to the store with you, let him or her run the test, you keep back far enough so you can't see which unit you're listening to. Keep everything else the same for each listen, the only thing that should change is the device you're auditioning.

This will tell you which one sounds better. If it's a wash, then it doesn't matter which brand you use. If you can hear a difference, go with the one that sounds best to you. Sometimes it may the less expensive unit. Go with your ears, but you gotta listen and compare.