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What process do you use to purchase cables?

I’m in the process of updating my gear and thinking about what to do for updated cables. Every time I think about it, my head spins as there are so many different cable options & companies. I struggle to even start the process.

I don’t care if it’s speaker cables, interconnects or power cords – Just explain what you typically do to nail down your purchase.

FYI – my past “process” was to simply purchase whatever I found to be the most affordable options recommended by folks on this board. For that reason, I’m currently using Canare 4S11 speaker cables, Mogami Gold interconnects, and Pangea power cords.

Since I’m planning to push my component updates to significantly higher quality gear, I don’t want to fall short on the cable side. If you have a process, let’s hear it! Thanks


dfairc777a
ghdprentice
6,965 posts
 
@clearthinker 

lol
stevencason
91 posts
 
I picked a manufacturer in the northwest near my home.  Blue Jeans Cables is their name.  Their product is well constructed, low capacitance, and very affordable.  My theory is so long as the cable is well constructed you don't need to spend a tone of money on them.  I also think cables are one of the least destructive components in regard to good sound.
kensm
1 posts
 
I use Paypal
thosb's avatar
thosb
204 posts
 
Here's my process for cables - 
a) determine what I'm willing top spend - for me and my system it's been up to $500 new or used.  More than this is hard for ME to rationalize.
b) see what Music Direct has on sale (usually free returns, which I have only used a couple times).
c) consider the Cable Company's lending library.  I always consider this but have never actually used.
d) search for Acoustic Zen on all the normal audio marketplaces.  AZ products have rarely left me wondering "do I really hear a difference?"; others have.
e) read read read and read some more.  Reading often leads me to search for new brands, but usually the reading and the answer to (a) leads me right back to (b) and (d).  Why not (c)?  I have no idea.

And very much agree with getting your components sorted out first!  



kennyc
1,472 posts
 
I look for sonic bargains to stretch my purchasing power like Requisite Audio, Triode Labs, Analysis Plus, Fidelium speaker, etc. Currently I have leads on 2 brands of high end audio cables at 70% discount- awaiting funds to purchase.

I also look at some cable shootouts on Audio Bacon including PC, interconnects, digital, speakers.

The Cable Company lending library is another great option- sure you’ll have to pay fees, but it’s worth it to dial in your ideal sound which may be your end game for cables.
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