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

tommylion,

Your idea is censorship, plain and simple, and it would turn Audiogon into another Steve Hoffman type site. 

I fully understand your annoyance with the member who got you going with this idea to begin with, I have had issues with him myself, and he even reported me once and caused me to be given a warning when it was he who deserved one. Still, you need to remember that it's better to ignore his type, because your responses just energize him to respond back. 

While your solution sounds tempting superficially, it would just create an atmosphere of mistrust and members would have apprehension about expressing their opinions. I think that it's best just to ignore the annoying posts and there will be fewer of them.  

It won’t happen because of the first amendment. Audiogon is a buisness and has to follow the dictates of their lawyers as not to get sued.

Tablejockey, good to know!

Frank, you’re the best!

This thread will probably be shut down within a day or two also.

Good points cd318

Boo on steenkin'' cencorship

Negative comments on tweaks are usually obvious enough to show they have no basis in experience.  

But this is the internet.

 

I think we all deserve a safe place where we only hear the things we want to hear. 

While your solution sounds tempting superficially, it would just create an atmosphere of mistrust and members would have apprehension about expressing their opinions. I think that it’s best just to ignore the annoying posts and there will be fewer of them.

That has already happened. Many new members are afraid to post and some of the members who have been here a long time have stopped posting long ago because of the discourse some like to bring here. Shame.