is "audiophilia" another form of conspicuous consu

Stereo equipment is really not that impressive to others.
As for conspicuous consumption. sure, But I doubt those folks are around here on these pages.
They are off reading the 'right' things. And doing all the 'right' things to keep up thier image.
I I had multi Billions of spare change laying around, i would have several sets of stereo toys. each set with the $500,000. plus price tag.. Maybe even several at each of my six homes... And a (big) room with the walls lined with great and famous gear, all on shelves from floor to ceiling.. The stereo equipment version of Jay Leno's car collection With my own service guy...
(So yeah, I would if I had the big bucks...)

I think it's insufficiently inconspicuous to qualify. As opposed to say, a Porsche 911 that everyone sees you pulling in and out of your driveway all the time.

Too few people if any would be impressed with my system, simply because they really don't care or understand and my system is not bad. However, pride of ownership is a factor with myself. I appreciate good sound coming from components that are well made. I can enjoy my system just from looking at it. Which is one reason I enjoy viewing others posted systems, which I will never be able to listen too. The joy of my system is for me alone.

I just looked at my last post, and I think that I need to start proofing them again. Sorry.
Anyway, I agree with Elizabeth in part. I would have multiple systems if funds were unlimited, but it would be for my own satisfaction, not to impess others who probably wouldn't know or care what they were looking at anyway.

I had 4 complete systems worth of components in a 15' X13' room at one time. The last thing I wanted was someone to see that mess. Conspicuous? I think not. I worked hard to keep people out of that room....