I think you're right in one respect: the difference between $8k and $10k cable may be extremely subtle and only audible to those with highly trained ears.

However I think that the difference between $0.25/ft and $5/ft cable can be a pretty decent upgrade for your system. There is much more bang for the buck when upgrading from otr (off the rack) crap to decent cable with some R+D under it's belt.

just a friendly retort =)