Worshipping these false 'Idols' proves costly mistake

'American Idols Live'

AT THE UNITED CENTER

For music fans, Fox's "American Idol" represents the ultimatetriumph of product over quality, though, in that regard, the nightis still young.

A bleak star search where the most likely outcome is televisedhumiliation by famous people, "Idol's" shamelessness is eclipsed onlyby its success. Its recently completed third season was a traditionalratings bonanza; minor controversies even erupted when the show'sphone-based voting system was flattened by millions of viewerssimultaneously trying to call in.

But there's a difference between watching something in your livingroom and dropping up to $45 to see a less …