I used to think pricey interconnects were snake oil...


But recently I had a chance to test my old free cables vs Audioquest Red River and then Mackenzie. The difference was subtle, but definitely there with each upgrade.

I guess reluctantly I am a believer now.

saulh

Showing 3 responses by lewm

There ARE some parameters to look for or measure, like resistance, inductance, and capacitance. The latter also affect “characteristic impedance”, which is defined as the square root of inductance divided by capacitance. This parameter is independent of length. Years ago, Atmasphere suggested I use speaker cables with a low characteristic impedance with my Atma OTL amplifiers, and I subsequently found that he was/is correct; not only do cables with low CI sound best with my amps but also cables with high CI sound really awful, e.g., Nordost.  So I would never buy expensive cables, usually make my own, but I have found that low CI is a worthy goal also with ICs. I happen to prefer solid core silver wires, as well.

There ARE some parameters to look for or measure, like resistance, inductance, and capacitance. The latter also affect “characteristic impedance”, which is defined as the square root of inductance divided by capacitance. This parameter is independent of length. Years ago, Atmasphere suggested I use speaker cables with a low characteristic impedance with my Atma OTL amplifiers, and I subsequently found that he was/is correct; not only do cables with low CI sound best with my amps but also cables with high CI sound really awful, e.g., Nordost.  So I would never buy expensive cables, usually make my own, but I have found that low CI is a worthy goal also with ICs. I happen to prefer solid core silver wires, as well.