Yes, it really is, but it's a really tough one to discuss in a calm and productive manner due to the seemingly inevitable switch to 'scream mode' that happens so quickly.

Audio is a pretty undemanding signal as far as low level signals go. Video is different. Speakers can be horrible loads.

Also, some 'exotic' cables are constructed in a way that colors their sound due to measurable characteristics. This would technically be distortion, although the difference is often interpreted as an improvement.

The famous DIY CAT5 speaker wires are in this category.