I admit I couldn't see how a few strands of copper could be faster or
slower. Unless there was a skin-effect from many more finer strands in
the USB 2? An active (amplified) cable is a different matter of course.

It seemed odd that both these shops were small independant computer
outlets. One might have expected more expertise than a typical
white-goods/electronics chainstore assistant. Though the independant's
cable prices were lower than the chainstores!

Thanks for the responses
Chris.B