OP, that Wendell would dismiss the need for better cables reminds me of another audio manufacturer here in MN who's niche was always SOTA amps and preamps that won't break the bank. He has also had a disdain for better cables---patch cords were just fine, captive AC cords served the purpose well. In recent years, he agreed to offer IEC connectors to meet market demands.
It seems these manufacturers, who market to budget-conscious folks, do not recommend buying expensive cables and cords because that spending just takes away purchases of their own products. They want to sell you on their stuff, not someone else's.
It seems these manufacturers, who market to budget-conscious folks, do not recommend buying expensive cables and cords because that spending just takes away purchases of their own products. They want to sell you on their stuff, not someone else's.