I need cables for my 2 channel system


Hi all,

I find the cable discussion very confusing, and it's pretty tough to separate the snake oil from the substance. Here is my current system:

  • MacBook Pro (late 2016 - USB-C) --- <Generic Cheap USB Cable>
  • Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ --- <Monoprice Premium XLR> 
  • Rotel RC-1590 Preamp --- <Monoprice Premium XLR> (Runs to Headphone setup on Out2)
  • Rotel RB-1582mk --- <Monoprice Access Series 14 Gauge AWG CL2 Rated 2 Speaker Cable> 
  • B&W 805 D3
Notes
  • Considering getting an SBooster power upgrade for Mytek, but they aren't currently available (open to other options)
  • 805s will be replaced with 802 D3 at some point this year
  • Considering a different amp, if the Rotel doesn't pair well with the 802D3
  • I only listen to digital streaming music with this setup - usually Tidal
  • Occasionally use a Yamaha WXC-50 to AirPlay to the Mytek

Happy to hear any advice about the system, but in particular cabling. I am not looking to break the bank, but if there is substantial improvement to be had for a few hundred dollars, I'd love to hear suggestions. I am not, however, looking super expensive cables and cords. As for sound, I do love the sound of the 805 (and 802 when I've heard it), so I'm not looking to make some radical change to the sound signature. Just more of the awesome I already hear. Thanks!
mayoradamwest

Showing 1 response by 2channel8

I have never bought anything from the Cable Co., But I have gotten some great deals on Zu interconnects and speaker cables on eBay. None of them made HUGE improvements over the Audioquest ICs they replaced or could best a pair of WireWorld Oasis 7's. Once you get above a certain relatively low price point the law of diminishing returns seems to follow an exponential curve for me. But I only paid what I was willing to gamble and loose for them and I'd do that again, especially for speaker cables. The big fat Zu Libtec cables in single runs were an  improvement over the Auvui Delux 14g silverclad cable I had in a bi-wire set up; but I would have been really disappointed if I'd paid list price.
I didn't start thinking about spending much money on cable upgrades until I'd upgraded my Rotel 100 receiver (an oldie, but goody) For a Primare I32. I know there is supposed to be a synergy between Rotel and B&W, since they share ownership; but the Rotel sounded very capable with my Canton Ergo speakers.
Long story short: I'd look at other things before I spent on cables, were I you.