@prof
I did not make the diamond analogy, you did. A diamond has intrinsic value as a gemstone, so if somebody sold a rock as a diamond that is clearly fraud and a crime. Audiophile cables and fuses are sold to improve the sound of the Audiophile's system. These items are in fact cables and fuses so there is no fraud wrt what they are. The value is dependent on what the listener hears....i.e., what makes them happy.
As you say, "snake oil is a euphemism for deceptive marketing." That opens a huge door covering many products and industries. However, a fuse is still a fuse and a cable still a cable.
Even if the SR stuff makes no measurable difference, cannot be selected in blind listening tests, and costs a fraction of the selling price to build, - if the buyer/user perceives the advertised level of improvement then so what? Does that validate the marketing? Maybe not, who knows?
Would I pay their prices for cables or fuses - no way. Do I believe the value to me in sonic improvements to my system would justify the prices - not in my world. Do I believe in the seemingly weird science and technology they use to justify the performance of the tweaky products they sell - nope. However, I do not begrudge those who do believe in the value and want to spend the money.
On the other side of the coin, I also appreciate the folks like Gene who present opposing viewpoints and especially when they make technical arguments supported with measurements. Amir Majidimehr over at Audio Science Review provides measurements and has a way of reporting facts as he believes them to be, without judging the product or manufacturer. That is the great thing about free speech and free enterprise, we do our research and vote with our wallets - nobody can make me pay for Ted's Ferrari.
