we're talking specifically about interconnects (cables)
Miklorsmith,
Can you give another example of a new product/technology that people pounce all over? I love new products/technologies. That is why I follow consumer electronics. Something is always changing, and it is usually for the better.
Unfortunately interconnects have no where to go in my opinion. The problem for these companies is that the glass ceiling has been hit a long time ago, and there is no way to break through. We already have the reference for how good the sound can be. It's a live performance for most of us. Or for the home theater nuts it's recreating the sound of their favorite cinema. We know where we want to get to. The reference is out there for everyone to see/hear. Most of us try to approach this reference point and hopefully we can be content with our results. We know things could probably sound a little better (a little being the key words) but then you reach a point of diminishing returns.
I will spend more money on something if I think the performance benefits are in line with the price increase. No one will argue about whether a Ferrari will perform better than my Chevy Cavalier. Anyone could drive both vehicles for 10 seconds and agree with that statement. People don't sit around and bash Ferrari because they can't afford one. You could never say the same thing for any 2 interconnects (unless one was damaged).
Miklorsmith, I think most are bashing these products because even if they performed miracles like they claim, the price/benefit factor just doesn't add up. If they charged $30 for these "cooked" interconnects, then I believe most wouldn't be so quick to make fun of them. Cable companies are playing to the elitist attitude of some people. These people don't care about how things work. They just want to say they own "the best." By pricing these cables in the stratosphere, the companies know they won't be questioned by those purchasing the products. It will be, "These are the best, huh? Fine. I'm rich. Give me a dozen."
My reaction to things I don't know about (and that interest me) is, ok, tell me more. Explain this to me. I'm usually excited initially. It is only later that I may be disappointed.
Do you really think these companies love audio so much that they just worked and worked until they found a new way to make signal transfer better. I hope you're not that naive. They sat around and said, "hey, we need a new gimmick so we can sell some cables. Anyone got any ideas?" Then Bob in the corner came up with the cable cooker. I think he got a promotion. That Bob is a bright one.
