Recommendations for fast sounding cables


I've recently acquired a SEP amp based on kt88's and while it presents well in many ways it lacks the speed of my push-pull and ss amps which is typical.  Thus I'm looking for some nice and well rounded sounding speaker cables (non-biwire) and interconnects (single-ended) that excel in speed, tempo, PRAT, whatever you wanna call it to try to get some of the head nodding and toe-tapping back.  Transparency, detail, open soundstage are basic requisites as well.  I would also consider maybe changing out my psu umbilical cord, usb, and digital coax.  I understand that this will likely involve some or all silver in the makeup of the cables, and while I like a lit-up sound- an overly bright anything will usually get quickly replaced.  The budget is not high at $100-$300 new or used but may make considerations for something exceptional that fits the bill. I've gathered that some of the following may work- please feel free to comment on those as well, but I would also like to get some more suggestions.  Thanks!

Mapleshade Double Helix
DH Labs Silver Sonic T-14
Signal Cable Silver Resolution
auralacrobatics

Showing 1 response by douglas_schroeder

In handling dozens of sets and hundreds of individual cables over the years, I do not come to the conclusion that cables can make a system sound "faster," but that this is predominantly a function of the combination of components and speakers. Cables do influence how well you hear the attributes of the system. 

Don't get hung up on silver conductor, as it can lean toward the bright, edgy end of things. 

At your price point you would be best going with used cables, and do not neglect aftermarket power cords, as they are critical to superior sound. If you have serviceable speaker cables and ICs, I suggest you seek a couple nice, used power cords to start. You'll be shocked at the improvement. 

Seriously consider that you made a mistake in moving from SS to tube amp. You could swap many cables and still be unhappy. If the change is too extreme from what you enjoyed more, then likely cables alone will not suffice to bring full enjoyment. My guess is the primary difference in performance is the bass, which is likely to be wooly and indistinct in comparison. If so, cables will not reverse that, but you must accept it as a fundamental difference in amps. You could change speakers to more efficient ones, or go back to a SS amp. But, cables do not allow a reversal of such characteristics. 

I am not interested in debating my observations.