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I need cables for my 2 channel system

Hi all,

I find the cable discussion very confusing, and it's pretty tough to separate the snake oil from the substance. Here is my current system:

  • MacBook Pro (late 2016 - USB-C) --- <Generic Cheap USB Cable>
  • Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ --- <Monoprice Premium XLR> 
  • Rotel RC-1590 Preamp --- <Monoprice Premium XLR> (Runs to Headphone setup on Out2)
  • Rotel RB-1582mk --- <Monoprice Access Series 14 Gauge AWG CL2 Rated 2 Speaker Cable> 
  • B&W 805 D3
Notes
  • Considering getting an SBooster power upgrade for Mytek, but they aren't currently available (open to other options)
  • 805s will be replaced with 802 D3 at some point this year
  • Considering a different amp, if the Rotel doesn't pair well with the 802D3
  • I only listen to digital streaming music with this setup - usually Tidal
  • Occasionally use a Yamaha WXC-50 to AirPlay to the Mytek

Happy to hear any advice about the system, but in particular cabling. I am not looking to break the bank, but if there is substantial improvement to be had for a few hundred dollars, I'd love to hear suggestions. I am not, however, looking super expensive cables and cords. As for sound, I do love the sound of the 805 (and 802 when I've heard it), so I'm not looking to make some radical change to the sound signature. Just more of the awesome I already hear. Thanks!
Ag insider logo xs@2xmayoradamwest
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Ask Blondie. She was born before you. : )

I’m a millennial. What’s it mean to “call” something?

ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,287 posts
 
"Call"...i.e., use your mobile device for something other than texting, Facebook, taking selfie’s and other nonsense. Use it as a telephone and engage in a real time, person-to-person, spoken conversation. Weird concept, I’m sure.
:-)

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,203 posts
 
I just bought two power cords and some Audioquest RCA’s from the Cable Store. Did it online, with a bit of email traffic because the RCA’s were on back order. Peter was the sales guy who took care of me. Turns out everything came together and on time.

Good people to do business with.

JD
ron1319
57 posts
 
Soix, are you sure the B&W speakers you heard were set up correctly?  Mine image with remarkable accuracy and I had Vandersteen 2Ce Signatures for almost 15 years prior.  I have Nautilus 801s which I would say are better in every way to my ear in my room.  Different price point, sure, but you made the generalization.  I agree with the general advice to go listen but being in Sac I have been wondering if there is a great Bay Area dealer left.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
mayoradamwest OP
429 posts
 
Great advice from everyone so far, but would love to hear more about cables. Yes, I get that I should contact the Cable Store, but they are incentivized to sell me expensive cables. I'd love to hear options here from others, and also even specific ones that might be available on Audiogon. I bought my Pre-amp here on Audiogon for $1400, practically new. I can't imagine spending more than that on cables, but maybe I'm wrong?
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