why do people feel the need to buy expensive cable

Two words!

SNOB APPEAL!

Too many here are stating things definitively so as to preclude any debate without the first hand experience to back it up. 

I used to be in the camp that simpler was the better way to go and as long as one used a high enough purity with the conductor material, and use the least offensive dielectric, then that was all was needed. And, indeed, there are cables that fall into that category that fill the need without resorting to deep pockets.

It was only when I got some discounted, higher priced cables that I realized I was gravely mistaken in my belief. I had to hear it for myself. Not only was I wrong about the premise regarding construction, I was also wrong on the monetary amount needed to achieve my present state of audio satisfaction. 

Considering what I've spent, slowing bleeding my wallet with various cables when I could afford to try something else, I just should have gone for the best I could afford and save money in the long run.

Lesson learned.

All the best,
Nonoise

two more words,

or not?

Happy Listening!

I have been running balanced cables for some time now . Yesterday i picked up a Krell KSA 100 off Craigs list . It has only rca inputs . Had to scrounge around to find a rca cable in the old dusty freebie bin of different cables i have . Plugged in some no name rca's so i could hear the new amp . To my amazement i was still listening to great sound . Go figure ? How is this possible ?

Anyone who wants to buy expensive cables more power to you . Just do not tell others they will not get great sound if they choose not to buy into them . End of discussion ? Good .