Like most things analog, interconnects and discussion of them is subject to endless debate with plausible (or semi-plausible) arguments on both sides.

Digital is different, and the fact that folks still hear a difference where it is trivial to prove there is none reinforces, in my estimation, what is going on in the analog case as well. That last may be an unfair generalization, as I'm reasonably sure there must exist some cases where analog cables will make a difference (very tough to drive speakers, high EMI environments, video) but I also suspect the vast majority are expectation. There is a reason scientific tests that rely on human judgment are not generally single blind tests.

Submitted respectfully and IMO, YMMV, etc.

EDIT:

It is my understanding that the design impedance and bandwidth for digital/video interconnects versus analog audio interconnects are different. My take on it is that one should ideally use the correct type for the application.

[This message has been edited by charlie (edited February 03, 2003).]