S/H cables are the best way to get top performance for much less.
Previous top of the line cables are available for a fraction of their initial selling price - the only problem can be finding exactly what you want.
FWIW I've just re-installed my Straightwire Maestro speaker cables that I bought back in the early '90's. They were relegated to my parts box when I required longer lengths after moving from mono amps to a stereo unit. I bought some longer lengths of Goertz Mi-2 because it was economical and had some good reviews.
Now with mono amps again I'm amazed at how good the Maestro cables sound - running bi-wire pairs to ATC SCM19's - the top to bottom clarity and detail is superb, as is spaciousness and imaging.
I'm kind of mad at myself for tossing these cables aside more than 20yrs ago.
Previous top of the line cables are available for a fraction of their initial selling price - the only problem can be finding exactly what you want.
FWIW I've just re-installed my Straightwire Maestro speaker cables that I bought back in the early '90's. They were relegated to my parts box when I required longer lengths after moving from mono amps to a stereo unit. I bought some longer lengths of Goertz Mi-2 because it was economical and had some good reviews.
Now with mono amps again I'm amazed at how good the Maestro cables sound - running bi-wire pairs to ATC SCM19's - the top to bottom clarity and detail is superb, as is spaciousness and imaging.
I'm kind of mad at myself for tossing these cables aside more than 20yrs ago.