Cables-how can you be sure of authenticity?

Newbee I accept where you are coming from....my system before seemed quite robust to cable experimenting and I can also accept that my ears aren't what they used to be.

Having said that buying a highly rated and expensive cable made by one of the big names inevitably you feel as if you may be about to hear something special perhaps thats the problem.
However the reality of my situation was that I think a well-made but DIY silver cable by a friend seemed to equal the top brand of one of the most famous cable makers in the world.

It made me wonder if the cables were "real" and it makes me wonder how some sellers seem never to run out of stock of these cables yet never have the packaging.

Having now perhaps more revealing speakers I'm wondering if I should give cabling another go.

Newbee I have to say I have been a sceptic with cabling due to my experience but I retain an open mind and I would like another bash maybe once I feel settled on how my speakers sound (see my other thread).

I'd be interested if other 'Goners have any comments on the non-packaging issue.

Tvad thanks for that.
A very interesting outcome on this and I will say no more than that but I do believe there are factors in here for Audiogoners to consider for cable purchases in terms of authenticity.

Indeed I would say I have a biased opinion of interconnects because I think now I was exposed to a fake Cardas Golden Reference.