Adding a “safe haven” forum for discussion of tweaks?


I think we can all agree that threads about tweaks like fuses, stones, mats, power conditioners etc. stir up all kinds of controversy, conflict and ill will.

 

Short of banning discussion of these controversial topics, is there another solution to this problem?

 

I got this idea from teo_audio’s comments about a solution implemented at Canuck audio on another thread:

 

“Canuck audio tames it by having a cable and tweak area for threads. Where any counter to the idea that such things are functional (in attempt or in analysis), is not tolerated.

 

Meaning.. threads where people discuss tweaks, or mods or cables and so on, if a naysayer posts there, and interrupts the discussion, in any way, they get their posts deleted. And...if the given naysayer can’t hold their tongue, after said deletion-ish warnings..... they will, rapidly, via any repeats in behavior, find themselves banned from the forum. They have to grow up, or get lost.”

 

You may not like parts of his description, but I think the idea has real merit.

 

I propose a new “safe haven” sub-forum, with some special rules, for the discussion of tweaks. These rules would ONLY apply to this specific sub-forum, the current rules would continue as they are in all other areas.

 

The special rules would be along these lines:

 

Posts that categorically deny the possibility of tweaks having any effect or value are not allowed.

 

Posts proclaiming tweaks to be “scams” “cons” etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that directly state, or imply, that another poster is lying, are not allowed.

 

Posts that make absolute negative statements like “Science proves it can’t work.” are not allowed.

 

Posts demanding measurements, controlled listening tests etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that express skepticism (without making absolute negative statements), ask tough questions, or request more information are welcome.

 

Of course, some who hold the above opinions may object, but they would still be able to express those opinions in all other parts of the forum, just like they always have.

 

What do you think?

tommylion

"I knew it was always Agon’s decision, but as I stated before, other threads without discourse to this day have gone on for years, talking about the same things."

You are correct in that. There are instances where there is no rhyme nor reason as to post deletions, thread deletions, what goes and what stays. Posts that clearly break the rules are left for all to see, while completely innocuous posts that breach no protocols disappear. No system is perfect.

As the saying goes People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.

MC wrote “We already have people saying very clearly where they stand. Just look how clear you were to let everyone know, and how little that did to stop the same old boorish behavior. “

Maybe a hard rule could be to leave politics out of this forum. That’s a red hot button for many on both sides of the divide.

 

I don't check in on audiogon too much anymore, partially because the discussions often degenerate into name-calling, but also because for my taste too many threads are hijacked by pitches for tweaks.

I like the idea of a separate forum for tweaks. I think we should think of it not as a "safe haven"--looks like those words carry too much baggage--, but as a place that attracts discussions for people interested in and supportive of this way of thinking about audio reproduction. So: not about censorship, but about enabling for those interested. And most importantly, it then needs firm moderation to keep it a place that supports that kind of discussion. Any volunteers for that role?

What is it? 😁

 

Not sure, but "If it’s not Scottish, it’s crap!"

Cheers,

Spencer

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