Do powercords make a difference in sound?

the fact that audio equipment makers are not shipping product using these "upmarket" power cords tell me that the people who actually make audio equipment aren't buying into these assertions.

All you'd have to do is visit a high-end audio show for a few minutes to see that your assertion is patently untrue. They don't ship their products with upmarket cords because of what it will do the price of the products, but many many of them chose to use those cords when they demonstrate their products.

I stand by what I wrote, paperw8, but do acknowledge that it's a bit more complicated. Manufacturers know these days that their products need to come with detachable power cords because audiophiles are accustomed to having that choice. If they bundle a specific cord with the amp because they think it sounds best with their product, some customers will insist on using a different cord and will balk at having to pay extra for the bundled cord. This isn't about "value buyers." If you were building a $6,000 amp but it would have to sell for $8,000 with your power cord of choice, would you do it? I think it would be a poor business decision. Oh, and what if the customer needs a longer length?

Hmmm...I don't think you understand audiophiles, paperw8. A power strip? Are you nuts? And some people do spend $2K for a PC for a $6K amp even if it may seem irrational.