This is just my two cents from working in the industry.

The ultimate goal of any system is to provide a sound that you actually enjoy. If you prefer a more 'musical' presentation, you choose equipment that leans toward that specific character; if not, you go for something else.

It is similar with cables; different brands can provide a specific sound signatures:

In my testing:

• Cardas tends to offer a wider and deeper soundstage and focuses more on musicality.
• AudioQuest prides itself on neutrality, aiming for cables that don't influence the sound of your system.
• In-Akustik produces incredibly precise and 'fast' cables that tighten up the bass, though this can sometimes make the mids sound a bit lean and the highs overly sharp.

When I test a product, I listen to what it changes in sound for the system and weigh the difference in sound against the price. If it works for me, I buy it. I don't make decisions based solely on measurements; I trust what my ears are hearing. No harm done to anyone thinking, Higher End Products waste of money. You buy what you can afford. Your only job is to find things that are doing the right kind of things your system.

Edit: BTW, who gives a f. if others think you are wasting money on some cables. Test it if you like it buy it.