is "audiophilia" another form of conspicuous consu

My guess is that initially an audiophile may be doing just that, buying stuff because it impresses his friends more than his having a developed/refined appreciation for what these 'finer components' can bring.

Gives him bragging rights especially on the internet. Absent any feedback from friends and neighbors, who would probably think he is nuts anyway, it minimally gives him some bragging rights over the internet. This disease, if it be so, seems to decline as experience and education increases, until the audiophile is cured and resists posting his opinions any longer without using the caveat IMHO or IME.

I for one appreciate it when posting about subjective matters the poster prefaces it with "IMHO" or "IME".

Interesting question. It is sometimes thought that big boats, expensive and fast cars, even high power amplifiers are the owners way of making up for an inadequacy in another "area". I myself listen to 45 SET's. I would rather not disclose the cost of my system to one not in the know, albeit, I purchased used here @ roughly 1/3 retail. That of course, is IMHO or at least, IME.

I meant to add..., my reluctance to disclose my system cost to those not familiar, is my doubt of their understanding. Of course, "WE" do, right? And it goes without saying......, YMMV.