cable upgrades , real or rip off

I agree, it is difficult to understand a manufacturer skimping on the power cord of a $3000.00 amp. Power cords and other tweaks are still relatively new to high end audio and their impact can't always be predicted or even understood, using the rigors of applied science. Engineers, like all scientists, like to build components using sound scientific principles. Throughout history, the greatest resistence to anything new, especially if it can't be proved, comes from the scientific community. No disrespect, but IMHO the thread by Jeff_jones demonstrates that thinking.
Due to the prodding of people I trusted, and over a period of time, I tried a number of cords in different configurations with little improvement, then one day everything clicked, the improvement was unmistakable, I was hearing subtleties and even instruments I had never heard before on my cds.

again thanks for the feedback, i can tell from the wide range of responces that this is not an open or closed debate. i did however find bigtee's blind test very intresting.

Spend your money on the equipment!
Spending it on interconnects/PC cord is no a wise choice of investment.
Though I do agree that the better interconnects and PC cords DO sound better, they are not the best bang for the buck when one could spend one's cash on better electronics that will be better than the lesser electronics and a bunch of expensive interconnect.
I stick with entry level interconnects that are well known like Nordost Blue Heaven, or Kimber PBJ/Hero.. even KCAG.
Though if you have an amp or whatever you really enjoy, a cord might do something for you...
As for chairs etc, I find the biggest change is when I wrap the speaker cables around my neck. Tight enough and the sound just makes me swoon! Whoo Hoo...
(8^Q...

I think Elizabeth is correct, that is until one reaches the point where changing equipment represents more of a horizontal movement than a vertical improvement.

At that point, a system, regardless of its specific make up (of components, speakers, cartridges, etc) is definitely capable of revealing the very real differences in cabling. And so I believe that is the time to begin this exploration, and probably not before. I also believe that at this point in system development, no further changes should be made in equipment until the cabling is brought up to a similar level as (the already high quality level of) the equipment.

Perception is reality: you decide.