The Science of Cables


It seems to me that there is too little scientific, objective evidence for why cables sound the way they do. When I see discussions on cables, physical attributes are discussed; things like shielding, gauge, material, geometry, etc. and rarely are things like resistance, impedance, inductance, capacitance, etc. Why is this? Why aren’t cables discussed in terms of physical measurements very often?

Seems to me like that would increase the customer base. I know several “objectivist” that won’t accept any of your claims unless you have measurements and blind tests. If there were measurements that correlated to what you hear, I think more people would be interested in cables. 

I know cables are often system dependent but there are still many generalizations that can be made.
mkgus

Showing 10 responses by audition__audio

Earlier rotarius stated that cable manufacturers used the same bulk cable supplied by the same sources. Even if this were true, and it is for many cable manufacturers but certainly not all, he is making the assumption that the conductor is all that truly matters. This is an erroneous assumption. The solution to this entire debate is very simple as it applies to the individual. Of course if you truly "know" as does rotarius and a few others, no need to experiment. But if you allow for the possibility, order a few different types of cables with return guarantees and experiment.  
Jim,
As if 30 years experience in some quasi related field puts you in a better position to judge. Instead of allowing the possibility that there may be things at play that you dont understand or cant hear, you take an aggressive stance that others are wrong (egotistic, ignorant, etc). I would suggest that it may be precisely this work experience that is part of the problem. Personally I have found always being right was just too much of a burden. Like Elizabeth it isnt your stance on these issues that I find objectionable it is your attitude. 
I would like to know which industry pros do and do not believe cables to be viable components. Further I am far more likely to seek advice from those who have auditioned a great number of cables than from those who have not. I dont know of any enthusiast that does not believe in the law of diminishing returns as this relates to audio components. 
Jim
As different cables are used for different applications I think it follows that audio cable is unique. Also please prove to me that cable manufacturers use Chinese made cable. I do believe that most cables consist of conductors made in several factories but the conductor is only part of the story. Also I know of a few manufacturers that use conductors that are manufactured in-house.

  
Jim
Your point means nothing as the applications are different. Are you trying to tell me that NASA uses .26/ft Chinese made cable in the shuttle? Further, does NASA use the same cable throughout the shuttle regardless of application? I am sure in some industry a machine exists that uses uber expensive cable but I am not willing to do the research as I dont think your point is particularly germane. The possibility exists that extremely expensive cable only exists in audio because this is the only application in which the additional cost can be justified. My mind is open to the possibility while yours is shut. 
Jim 
As usual you missed my point entirely. Get with the program indeed! Put a fork in me..
Well I guess someone has to say something about an earlier post and request by douglas. First let me say that I sympathize with the families of any victim of violence but I cant understand why anyone would ask that certain words and speech not be used in their presence because it "offends". Worse yet to apologize and add credence to such a request.

May I remind you that you words must be taken in context and intent is critical. I am ashamed of these recent developments in our society which have lead to: safe rooms, time outs, optional school attendance due to some perceived trauma, discouragement of healthy political and social discourse and challenge referred to as hate speech to name just a few.

My day is not complete without several offenses, challenges and some spirited discourse. Just think about how ridiculous most of this has become.  
Pretty significant difference between overly sensitive people and those with serious grievances/concerns. Tolerance has sunk to the level of absurdity and our ability to converse freely is a freedom which may soon be gone. 
As if science is incontrovertible and scientists are never swayed by agenda. Just another participant that wants everyone to know how he stands on a particular issue not related to cables.