No. I looked at some recent replies to my comments, and I've only upvoted about 50%. But I am much more likely to upvote a non-substantive (but positive) reply

No. I looked at some recent replies to my comments, and I've only upvoted about 50%. But I am much more likely to upvote a non-substantive (but positive) reply to my own comment, such as "Thanks". I wouldn't do this if it was a reply to anyone else's comment. That is a quick way of acknowledging the response, as you mentioned. edit: I would be less likely to downvote direct replies, out of respect for the person engaging, but that option isn't available anyway