Adding a “safe haven” forum for discussion of tweaks?


I think we can all agree that threads about tweaks like fuses, stones, mats, power conditioners etc. stir up all kinds of controversy, conflict and ill will.

 

Short of banning discussion of these controversial topics, is there another solution to this problem?

 

I got this idea from teo_audio’s comments about a solution implemented at Canuck audio on another thread:

 

“Canuck audio tames it by having a cable and tweak area for threads. Where any counter to the idea that such things are functional (in attempt or in analysis), is not tolerated.

 

Meaning.. threads where people discuss tweaks, or mods or cables and so on, if a naysayer posts there, and interrupts the discussion, in any way, they get their posts deleted. And...if the given naysayer can’t hold their tongue, after said deletion-ish warnings..... they will, rapidly, via any repeats in behavior, find themselves banned from the forum. They have to grow up, or get lost.”

 

You may not like parts of his description, but I think the idea has real merit.

 

I propose a new “safe haven” sub-forum, with some special rules, for the discussion of tweaks. These rules would ONLY apply to this specific sub-forum, the current rules would continue as they are in all other areas.

 

The special rules would be along these lines:

 

Posts that categorically deny the possibility of tweaks having any effect or value are not allowed.

 

Posts proclaiming tweaks to be “scams” “cons” etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that directly state, or imply, that another poster is lying, are not allowed.

 

Posts that make absolute negative statements like “Science proves it can’t work.” are not allowed.

 

Posts demanding measurements, controlled listening tests etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that express skepticism (without making absolute negative statements), ask tough questions, or request more information are welcome.

 

Of course, some who hold the above opinions may object, but they would still be able to express those opinions in all other parts of the forum, just like they always have.

 

What do you think?

tommylion

@jperry +1

@tommylion So you want a safe space? Not sure that will work and in real life it is debateble if it works on college campuses. They have created an entire generation of softies that is for sure.

But if Agon created it I would respect its boundries....oh who am I kidding no I would not...yes I would....no, no I would not, dang the bats are back.

 

 

I agree with you, in the meanwhile I think you should go to Audio Asylum for that discussion.

@tommylion 

'Posts that categorically deny the possibility of tweaks having any effect or value are not allowed.'

No

 

'Posts proclaiming tweaks to be “scams” “cons” etc. are not allowed.'

No

 

'Posts that directly state, or imply, that another poster is lying, are not allowed.'

No

 

'Posts that make absolute negative statements like “Science proves it can’t work.” are not allowed'

No

 

'Posts demanding measurements, controlled listening tests etc. are not allowed.'

No

 

In fact all of the above suggestions amount to little more than plain censorship.

Don't you think there's enough censorship in the world already?

Without debate there's every chance of this forum descending into little more a vehicle for free advertising. 

Often for products that bear more relationship to snake oil than sonic excellence.

A few would be entrepreneurs might prefer it like that, but what about the common good?

 

If a product is good enough to make it on its own merit, then it's good to withstand closer inspection, isn't it?

 

If you want a seperate section for such unfounded speculations, then fair enough.


Just make it clear that it has nothing to do with any accepted orthodoxy, evidence or any scientific reasoning. If you want to call it a cultish indulgence, go ahead.

It might be fun but you mustn't imply it's factual.

Remember, times are hard for many people and we would
not want folks new inexperienced to audio to throw money away chasing someone else's hand shadows, would we?

There are many products out there that can be tried at home,in your own system,that offer a money back guarantee. Yet people still will argue until their lips fall off,that it's snake oil.  
 

     Now,certainly everyone is entitled to their opinion.  I'm the last person to think that censorship in anyway is a good thing.  However,some folks are certain that they need to save someone from making a decision.  The way I was brought up was everyone is responsible for their own actions.  I prefer to come up with my own conclusions.  I certainly don't care for people to tell me how to spend my money.  Now,if I ask that particular question, well that's a different story.  If I ask,should I try some new fuse,or pay my electric bill......... 

I was under the impression that this is a discussian forum.

If someone goes overboard (outside the posting rules - either way on the "tweak thing", or anything else) the posts are usually deleted is seems.

I've read comments here that certain previous posters have been banned for breaking the rules, but don't know if this is in fact true.

Don't see a problem with the current system.

DeKay