Does the Quality of the USB cable matter?

jim204,

Yes, I posted a message about the new PS "Snowmass" firmware upgrade in the Digital section. In short, it is a very awesome upgrade.

jeenam,

Thanks for info.

jeenam,

Actually today I am using the usb cable from my Bryston BDP-2 to a PS Audio Direct Stream Dac. So to me the usb cable matters.

Also, I just tried a iFi usb purifier #2 along with some AQ jitterbugs. And in both cases the soundstage shrunk dramatically. The phrase "its only as good as its weakest link" applies. The Acoustic BBQ usb is better on its own without any addons. That is within my system, my ears etc.

ozzy

I have a found a usb cable that is the best I have tried thus far. Its made by a longtime member grannyring.

It is called the "Acoustic BBQ". He sent me one to try against my Curious usb. It was so good that I bought it ! 
It has the openness that the Curious has but with a slightly warmer sound.
And...it is available at a much lower price and shipped from the USA.
Here is a link to his ad.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9636a-acoustic-bbq-full-rack-usb-cable-new-digital

Give it try and post your results.

ozzy

Well, I just took the DH Labs USB cable off the Cable Cooker and I must report that for my application, I hear no difference between the DH Labs cable and my previous cheapo USB cable.

I tried the DH Labs USB cable for a little while Saturday, and I thought I was hearing more body to the music than I had when using my cheapo USB cable.
So to make the comparison fair I've put the Dh Labs cable USB on my cable cooker for a few days and I will insert it back into my system then.

Thanks all for the reponses.
I just had to test this cable question for myself so I ordered a 5 meter USB from DH Labs based on the latest review in Postive feedback. This DH cable also has a shield and I believe DH has a 30 day return policy.

But, even if it proves to have no sonic improvement for my hardrive connection, I still may keep it in case someday I get a new Dac with USB capabilities.

Ed, Even if I am only using the USB Cable from my laptop to my external hardrive?

Thanks everyone fo the help. I have the DH Labs USB cable and will try it out this weekend.

Jedinite24,

I have the Audiodharma cable cooker. Finding the right adapters was difficult but in the end not too expensive.
You need a USB to Audio adapter (L,R and Video with rca's), cost $2.39 Amazon. One of these for each end.
I also needed a USB B to a USB A adapter and a USB female coupler. About $10-15 bucks.

I'm using a Cat 7 cable. Primarily because it looks like its built better and it cost about the same as Cat 6. Can't say whether it sounds better though.