Mid-Fi ICs - BJC vs. Audioquest Sidewinder


I will be using a laptop USB out to a Peachtree Decco as a pre-amp, combined with a McCormack DNA 0.5 deluxe for power, running to a pair of NHT 2.5i speakers. I do not plan on spending much more money, but I still have to buy cables. I was thinking of just getting some blue jeans cable speaker wire (belden 5000), but I'm not sure what to do for ICs. I was thinking of getting either BJC ICs as well for about $30, or getting some AQ Sidewinders for $60 shipped.

What would you guys suggest, considering my setup? I'm just now sure how good or bad BJC ICs are supposed to be, though I've heard most of their stuff is relatively solid for the price. Same with the sidewinders. Any other suggestions are of course welcome as well. Thanks!
105sixteen

Showing 1 response by pep21

When upgrading my ic's recently (more expensive than you are looking for) I ran across a pair of used Transparent "the link" ic's ($40/shipped).
I have to say they sound pretty good for the money.
There is alot of good ic's for your price range if you want to buy used.
Plus you won't have to break them in.
If I was going to spend $60/pr. I would buy used and skip the sidewinders, can't really speak for the bjc's.

To name a few:
Transparent the link.
Nordost black knight (pr. here on audiogon used)
kimber pbj
Zu cable gede on fleabay (new in your $ range).
Apogee Wyde eye (1/2m cheap after that they get expensive, can be used as both ic's and excellent digital cable also).
Wireworld oasis

Just look here on Agon for some used ic's, same for speaker cables, I have seen Audioquest Slates, Indigo blue, anticables, Mapleshades, ect selling for cheap on here.
Probably get alot more performance for the money used.

I would prefer the above to any you have mentioned.
Nice system by the way, I (insert heart here) NHT!