I think you just hit the proverbial nail on the head. If someone has, let's say, whole house surge protection (i.e. at the fuse box) then it would negate the need for fuses, period. The same would go for anyone with surge protection for their components. Others here have done that already and like you, sing the praises of going fuse free.
An audio dealer who I live nearby told me a similar thing when I told him the benefits I got with aftermarket fuses: use a copper bar or just pullout the fuse holders and solder it up with wire and I'd be floored with what I hear. And, that I"d never go back.
You wouldn't need a double blind, AB/X test. Just one system with fuses and another identical system without and then watch for the furrowed brows and angry retorts.
All the best,
Nonoise