2. cables
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Next upgrade: cables. But which ones first?

Please help with guidance regarding cable upgrade. I’m a total cable novice. So far I’ve focused on upgrading components and I think the next move should be cables. But where to start?

I have B&W 804S speakers, McIntosh MC275 amp, Lamm LL2D pre, Rotel RCD1072 cd player, a Squeezebox Touch, and I plan on getting a DAC in about a year. I have two 10 AWG dedicated power lines with hospital grade outlets, and the system makes no hiss, no hum. All power cords are stock (none shielded), speaker cables are magnet wire (DIY anti cables), and ICs are Nordost cheapest RCAs.

I’m trying to decide whether to upgrade speaker cables first, or power cords first. While ICs are still cheap, I guess they are a small step above the speaker and power cords. I also realize this is yet another form of source first vs. speakers first debate. Yet I need to decide what would make a larger sonic impact for about $1000. I could buy used in the US or DIY, but I’m overseas so getting a bunch of cables and trying is not an option.

Thank you!
lewinskih01

Showing 2 responses by onhwy61

onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,334 posts
 
DIY represents a very good value for power cords. You can customize them to your needs and they are very easy to construct. Dollars spent equate to 3x to 5x equivalent retail value. The only downside is unproven resale value. If you go the DIY route you also might consider upgrading or even eliminating the IEC inlets on your equipment.

I'm not sure I agree with power cords being the bedrock of a system. Their effect is very variable and totally system dependent. It's also my experience that you have to have the rest of your system in order before you can hear the effects of power cords upgrade. It's a chicken and egg problem.
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,334 posts
 
I'm no expert on power cords, but I have recently come to the conclusion that there are better than entry level power cords. DIY is an excellent path for pursuing value in better quality power cords. On a dollar per dollar basis the component quality in DIY far exceeds equivalent commercial products. You simply don't see Furutech or Oyaide connectors on $100 power cords.
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