NBS cables ... a couple of questions ...

As I recall, the Monitor series was an older series, roughly equivalent to the current Omega series. The Monitor/Omega series sound very fast, detailed and a touch analytical. The Classic series sounds warmer, projects a large soundstage and sounds more "relaxed." As models in each line go up in price, they sound better, but, they do retain the general characteristics of each line. Both lines sound terrific, so, it is a matter of listening and picking the sound that works best in a particular system.

I have some short Omega interconnects, and a very long King/Serpent interconnect between my linestage and amp. I also have Omega speaker cables. I use a mix of cables from other companies as well. I also like XLO Limited and the cables from Basis Audio (the turntable people). the XLO Limited is a good all-round cable while the Basis is a bit more punchy and detailed (but again, a touch analytical sounding).

I know a couple of people that use the Black Label cables. These are huge, stiff, difficult to use cables that are incredibly good in an all-out system. The prices are extremely high, but, my guess is that their stuff is priced this way based on how cables perform relative to their competition. Certainly, the prices don't reflect cost of manufacture in any way.

"The prices are extremely high, but, my guess is that their stuff is priced this way based on how cables perform relative to their competition. Certainly, the prices don't reflect cost of manufacture in any way."

My guess is that they've figured out just how much the market will bear and have priced their cables accordingly. As you so astutely observed, the prices have NOTHING to do with the cost of manufacturing. I am *constantly* amazed at the value perceived by others when it comes to uber-wire....

-RW-

My first hi end cables were NBS and through the years have upgraded them to the next level....NBS gives full retail credit towards the upgrade. It has always worked to my benifit. I use the classic series and have also found them on the warm side with great tonal balance and a amazing soundstage.