How much does volume matter when breaking in amps and cables?

We’ve already covered that. Snooze, you lose. The break in of speakers, cables, capacitors, etc. is a physical, a mechanical phenomenon. It manifests itself electrically, as fate would have it. Try to keep up with the discussion.

I think it is also a myth that people buy expensive gear that they don’t like because they’re told they Will like it later. 

I think some fail to return equipment they don’t like, hoping for the glorious moment that mesmerizing sound takes over their rooms. By the time they figure it’s not going to happen, the return period has passed

jL35, people do not buy expensive gear that they do not like. They buy expensive gear that is flashy only to find out that they do not like it then are told "Gee, you just have to break it in." People like geoffkait are suckered into believing that is true. 
Aberyclark, try not to buy equipment you do not like which admittedly is not easy. I cower to think how much money I have wasted over the years. It is always buyer be ware unless you are geoffkait then everything you buy is just wonderful especially after it breaks in. The only item that breaks in is your brain. Of course certain people, who shall go unmentioned have a hard time finding theirs. OK moderator, is that polite enough?