Alpha Core Goertz

I've never had problems with them. I've tried a bunch of their stuff and still have a set of MI-2 Veracity cables. I took advantage of their trial period on products and they were always quick to credit me with a refund. I suppose there is always someone who falls through the cracks no matter who the vendor is. Sorry to hear it was you.

La45 - try their speaker cables. I think you will be extremely surprised. Make sure to get the zobel networks. I had them build the zobel into the cable design, but you can get them separately (they're free) and hook them across your binding posts. Also splurge on their jumpers ($20) if you aren't bi-wiring.

Ctb - I don't find the cables fragile at at. AC offers a flat design and non-flat design (Serpent series). If you're not careful you can put bends or crinkles in the flat cables (which generally won't break them or even affect the sound), but overall they are pretty flexible and AC even recommends you can place them under carpet or behind baseboards.

As for the amp issue, it is well known and mentioned on several threads here that the zobel networks are a safe bet to use with these cables. Especially with solid state amps. Something to do with the cables capacitance forces some amps into oscillation. The zobels are supplied free by AC and you can have them integrated into the cable design of you like. Look for posts on the subject by Audiogon member Sean.

Ctb - typically the zobels are required for solid state amps, but considering their price (evidently they are not free anymore - $20), why not play it safe and get them anyway. I think they are sold in pairs so you need 2. Get the jumpers while you're at it.

As for damage, you didn't mention the animal factor. Yes a puppy can chew through them if they work at it long enough. If you can run them under carpet that would certainly help.

Does anyone know why Merlin speakers use a zobel?