I think additive or subtractive is too simple. All cables are basically R-L-C networks that have different ways of distorting the signal waveform. Additive or subtractive depends on what you want to hear from your system. If the highs seem down or up to you is that good or bad? additive or subtractive? All amps should be a straight wire with gain, but we know they are not. Same with cables or any other component. In the same way we learn to interpret a reviewers biases to see if they tend to coincide with our own.
Are cables additive or subtractive?
There’s lots of debates here about the effectiveness of cables. Let’s please keep that elsewhere so we can have a DIFFERENT discussion about cables.
Let’s assume for argument’s sake that yes, cables make a difference and that it’s worth paying for that difference.
Lets assume that is true, then lets ask the question:
- Do cables ADD or SUBTRACT from the signal?
Again, for this thread, assume cables change something audible.
What do you think and what are your experiences?
Also, let's try to avoid sweeping generalities and try to focus on what happens along this axis: Subtraction or addition.