why do people feel the need to buy expensive cable

In regards to some of the above discussion, cables can't add something to the sound or signal since they are passive. I've always thought that the best ones do no harm so you can hear everything if your system is up to snuff.

Or do I have it wrong?

And, Melbguy, you insult people and then expect an audience when you post?

"I actually don't think that's true. I am pretty sure most speaker manufacturers state the MINIMUM power required. They also frequently state the MAXIMUM POWER Handling capability. It's also why speaker manufactures usually state sensitivity, you know, to indicate relative power required.
Geoffkait (Threads | Answers | This Thread)"

I have to agree. Although I can understand Mapman's comments. I just think its the other way around. If you look at how amp company's rate their products, its almost criminal. Not all of them, but the closer you get to mass market, the more bogus the ratings. I think that leaves speaker manufacturers in a bad place because there's no standard. The average person would think a 200 watt Bryston amp is a rip off because they can buy a Sony receiver in BB for less than the sales tax on the Bryston.

11-02-15: Runnin
And, Melbguy, you insult people and then expect an audience when you post?

No, I tell it how it really is. I give honest advice whether it's fashionable or not. And I call out shills and hypocrites. And for that, I have been banned on several forums, attacked and accused by people like you of being a troll & isolated. But there is a silent minority of people who respect me for not being a puppet, sheep or phonie who are too scared to publically show any support. They're the ones I have time for.

People feel the need because to them it makes the system sound better. I think if you hear a difference and it's worth it to you then you do it. Cables and equipment are always going to be priced high because the demand in the market is there. I once was in a room where there was half a million plus dollars worth of equipment and cabling and the owner flat out enjoyed it. Did his system sound better than anything I heard? Yes! Would I spend that amount in audio equipment and cabling? No! However, I would never criticize someone else for doing it. Yeah you can get by with cheaper cabling and equipment and enjoy it. However, the sound of the equipment and cabling in that room I heard that day was flat out amazing. It's still in my head two years later. Enjoy your cables! 1.00 or $10,000. If it's worth it to you! If others have something to say about it. Cut your system on and drown out the noise. Don't talk just listen.lol. Audio is a need! We all are nuts!

Lol Calvin, yes no question it is possible to put together a musical sounding system (incl: wire) on a relatively modest budget if you do your homework & choose your gear wisely. Going 2nd hand or getting a good deal through an Audio dealer obviously helps as well. I should clarify, my above comments were only directed at two or three shills/rear end tow ropes who repeatedly subject forum members to obvious shilling. I don't need to name names as it's pretty obvious who they are. I'm sorry if any other members took though my comments were directed at them. And yes, give the fact i'd rather be single and buy more audio gear suggests i'm a bit nuts!