2. cables
  3. 162550-139027

Cables 101, new student, first question

I have a simple question if I can get it worded correctly. For simplicity, let's say my system has four interconnects in a "stream," all from the same manufacturer, some from the top of the line and some from the bottom. Example: Wireworld's Eclipse 8 line, four different versions, the least expensive starting at $325 and the most expensive starting at $1700. In general, will the system's sound be defined by the weakest (cable) link in the chain, in which case all the more expensive cables are a waste of money? Or will a mix of cables that includes some really high-end ones sound better than a consistent run of the cheaper stuff? 

To put this a different way, if I'm buying a couple new interconnects (again, for simplicity's sake from the same maker), might buying better ones improve the sound or will I not hear a difference until I've replaced them all? (Here's the stream analogy: if I put a dam upstream, the flow in the entire river will be reduced.)  


northman

Showing 4 responses by terry9

terry9
2,354 posts
 
Northman, I suggest that you audition before you buy. You have a functioning system and you know how it sounds. Make any change prove itself before your lay down your dollars.

You may find, as I do, that cables are the least cost-effective upgrade.
terry9
2,354 posts
 
Cakyol:

Physics? What's physics got to do with it? This is religion!



terry9
2,354 posts
 
Right, asv. 

No doubt I could improve on Canare microphone cable and ETI connectors, but at what cost? Another Koetsu? No thanks.
terry9
2,354 posts
 
Another thing to consider is environment, specifically, RF environment.

Canare Starquad has an RF-rejecting geometry and very dense shielding, yet somehow remains flexible. Cross-linked polyester dielectric, which gives nothing away to teflon. Acceptably low capacitance. One of the best studio cables, which means it was good enough to make the record you're listening to.

Some cable companies offer a Starquad option, or so I've read. And Switchcraft connectors, which are well made and damned near free (from Digikey), compete with ETI and WBT. That is, in a double blind experiment with Starquad, DIY class A electronics, and $30,000 worth of ESL's. Expensive name brand cabling (which I got free) did not compete.
More to discover