2. cables
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I've never believed much in cables, that said... (USB)

So, in 30+ years of being an audio geek of sorts I've never believed much in cables.  I've always felt once it's a decent gauge and quality (think basic Mogami XLR's and Canare 4s11 speaker) that they don't make much of a difference.  I do try occasionally and try to read the science to see if it makes sense.  

Over the years there have been a couple cables I thought MIGHT have been different (not better or worse, but different).

1.  Gregg Straley Reality cables - these are a solid core and I believe he cryo's them.  I felt the speaker cables MIGHT have brightened things up a bit.  60/40 on if they did, but I'm pretty sure they did.

2.  PS Audio AC3 power cables on my amp.  I inherited this cable with a used amp purchase so said what the hell, I'll try it.  Don't think it did a thing on the pre-amp.  But, with two different amps, I THINK it opened up the soundstage a bit.  Reading about it, I think that the whole highs/lows shapes of cables doesn't make a lot of sense.  But I did think it might make a big enough difference.  For what I essentially paid for it - I kept it and use it.  If anything it looks cool and does stay in the outlet with a vice like grip.  


That said.

Just got my first outboard DAC (oppo sonica) and started with a cheap USB cable then tried an audioquest cinnamon, clearly a difference to me.  I was shocked (and bummed in some ways). But it was obvious, so I tried an audioquest carbon - and yes, again I'm pretty darn sure I heard a difference and it was better.  Everything did have more separation and clarity without being brighter (which is what I thought speaker cables might have done).  This was clear.  It still makes little sense to me (0's and 1's).  I've tried to look at tests like at ASR... but man it's the first time I really felt I can hear a difference.  

Might try the PS audio power cord on the dac, but that means changing on the amp... so not sure if it would be fair or not!
dep14

Showing 1 response by dep14

dep14 OP
336 posts
 
@millercabon and @cleeds,

So, I always try to have an open mind.  I do like dealers willing to demo, and typically buy used.  Honestly, I did try my PS3 powercord on my pre-amp and just didn't notice a different (pass xp12).  One my 250.8 - noticed a difference as I did a BAT amp that it came with.

Speaker cables, I've tried a few, and other than the Reality Cables mentioned where I might have heard something... I can't say I've heard a ton.  I don't see myself going uber expensive.  I always try to look at the science, and trust my ears.  

The USB cable though, was obvious.  I did demo a nordost blue heaven for a couple days on the oppo as a power cord.  I was back in the "might" category.  A longer demo with more A-B is probably needed.

Power cords also baffle me as to why they would make a difference after miles in the walls... so spending a ton, going to be tough.  Sub 200 bucks... ah, that's not bad.

But I can see myself trying another USB cable at some point.
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