I always thought pickups (the needle of a turntable) are the best example for that: A 200$ pickup is certainly better than a 20$ needle, maybe even 10x better

I always thought pickups (the needle of a turntable) are the best example for that: A 200$ pickup is certainly better than a 20$ needle, maybe even 10x better The difference between a 200$ pickup and one that goes for 2000$ is miniscule. There certainly is a difference, but it's never as big as between the 20$ and the 200$ model. That said, there are listeners who believe in the value of a 2000$ pickup and derive a lot of enjoyment from the difference to a lesser model. Who am I to say they're wrong? Now when it comes to a manufacturer of very expensive cables (for example): Don't make me laugh...