If cables can break-in, can they then wear-out?

I don't know, but it sounds like a dynamite marketing strategy: replace your cables every six months due to wear.

You would think so.

I think you're right that our ears getting accustomed to something different sounding can be easily mistaken for break in. H

ow can you know for sure how much of the change is due to the item itself transforming versus our ears?

I agree that a piece of wire does not need nor benefit from break-in. But a cable is a bit more complex. The wire and the connections can oxidize over time, the dielectric can break down, deform, lose efficiency, etc. Granted this is over a very long time, certainly more than six months - more like 8 to 12 months.... er years :) So yeah, I think they do "wear out" but not because of use, just age/oxidation.

This is likely the second thread where I'll be accused of not generating enough revenue for AudiogoN and therefore my views should be ignored. But really, I don't care if people buy new $12,000 cables every six months because they're worn out. I just think they are very lucky to have more money than brains. Speaking of which, didn't congress just pass the "Cable Refreshment Act" in the stimulus package?!