I agree that cables do make a difference, and can have differing impact on sound reproduction. But as you have stated, there is, and should be a limit to your enthusasim in this arena.
While it is easy for manufacturers of other pieces (amps for example) to discuss the design principles of their work and logically defend and agree, cable designers are many times not as placated. It has been said that there is an air of "huckster" surrounding the cable business, and in some cases rightfully so. I have a couple of systems, one midfi, and one hifi. I have moved the cables between the two, and can hear an audbile difference. But I would be hard pressed to explain in a technical fashion why there is a difference . As an engineer, this is most frustrating too....
