The purpose of power cables (expensive or not) in a hifi system is to provide clean and dependable juice and, most important, to improve the sound. And that's what most cable manufacturers claim. Most of them don't claim that their products measure better compared to the ordinary kettle cord.

If it sounds better than it is better. Listen to it and make up your own mind. And that's what Mr. Ben Goldacre should have done (only he didn't). Besides, I think there are measurement methods which proove that there is a difference between dedicated hifi cables and ordinary kettle cables.

I might stir some water here, but as far as my pretty extended experience goes, there is a difference and - with the better cords - an improvement. I've heard it on many occasions in many systems with dozens of people. Repeatedly. Comparing power cords isn't that easy since most high end components don't like to be switchted on an off in quick succession.

I (for one) prefer the less nervous sound of a dedicated hifi cable and the superior three-dimensionality (sound- and picture-wise).

My advice to all: Make up your own mind and try before you buy.

-m