why do people feel the need to buy expensive cable

I don’t care about hdmi cables. This is audiogon not videogon

Settle down, Calvin, we’re talking about audio. HDMI cables carry audio and video signals. Besides, as I pointed out, there’s a broader issue here.

gdhal
geoffkait - “Do you really think companies who manufacture an entire range of HDMI cables like Audioquest are perpetrating a hoax?”

No. They are perpetrating a business, to make money. Hel-loo!

>>>>Business doesn’t equal hoax, Einstein. Your logic is all messed up. Companies make products at various prices points to appeal to a wider range of budgets and performance. You know, like Toyota and Mercedes Benz and Samsung TV. Duh! 😛

You have to know when to speak up. You also have to know when to remain silent. - A. Einstein

HDMI cables have different qualities too!
I can say that since I bought a better silver plated OFC one and Hell yes the picture is cleaner and better looking.
And IMO there is a lot of overlap in Video and audio gear. Particularly for tweaking.
The big plus for video gear is you can SEE the results in the picture. Audio the ear has a tougher time to 'see' as easily.
For my Plasma TV, I could see the results of different powercords. and using a conditioner at all. or a different AC conditioner.
So I would say there is value in talking about video equipment and tweaks in an audio thread.

Do you really think companies who manufacture an entire range of HDMI cables like Audioquest are perpetrating a hoax?

I keep telling you guys...not a hoax.  These fancy cables are relatively pricey to produce because they are made to look expensive.  Looking cool has value!  Sorta like wheels on a Jaguar...way more show than go...more form than function.  But of value nonetheless.

Just let's be honest; admit you buy them mostly for the looks.  If you cannot then you are being hoodwinked.  Or you want them so bad to sound "better," they magically do.