So in the intro thread I made a very confident and arrogant statement about aftermarket cables, basically calling them snake oil and questioning how anyone could possibly "believe" in them.

I should start by giving some quick background: I have never heard an aftermarket cable.  I am a bit arrogant and closed minded in general.  I have almost no experience nor knowledge about this hobby.  After reading quite a few threads around here I realize that most of the regulars here bring TONS of experience and knowledge, and there are quite a few high IQ individuals here.  Ok, let me rest my tonsils for a sec.

I think this topic is still a bit controversial because I see some people hearing differences, some not.  To be specific, for the HD800 I've seen numerous people prefer an upgraded cable for sonic reasons.

If there is a difference, why is there one?  Is it because the stock cable is the weak link in the chain, is it not delivering the signal properly?  If so why wouldn't the manufacturer address this problem?  Or does an aftermarket cable add coloring to the sound?  Or does the aftermarket cable actually improve the sound, is that possible?  Or is it just a very basic explanation about signal transmission and materials used?  Or is it just not understood, but there is a clear sonic difference heard anyways?