Audible differences between speaker cables?

An oversimplified answer would be: fluid smooth, airy, delicate, warmth, detail, extended bass, mids, and highs. Different cables such as speaker cables or interconnects can sound different in those categories and others. I’m sure there are others on this site that can be much more specific and accurate, this is just the start.

Or not. There are many many card carrying audiophiles, most of them with degrees in electrical engineering or some other technical field, who believe that all competently designed cables sound the same (actually dont sound at all). Some of them are my friends. Unhappily, I find that cables do sound a bit different, but as I often say, I am probably delusional.

If you are new and looking for speaker cables, don't worry about it too much and dont spend a lot of money. I saw one of the mailorder outfits had some Ixos 6003 on sale recently. HCM is selling some discontinued Audioquest GR8. You occasionally see Kimber 4VS on sale used here. If you are really curious, you could go to Radio Shack and buy some 18 gauge solid core hookup wire (not stranded), lightly twist 2 strands together one for "positive" and one for "negative" and use that.

Now to your question specifically, do you want people to tell you how they think an Audioquest cable (neutral) compares to a Kimber cable (brighter maybe except for the aforementioned 4VS) at the same price point? There are so many of them and such a wide range of prices. If you have a price range in mind it would help.

What I want from a wire is that it does nothing but pass along a signal. Sometimes I think cable designers attempt to do something else. But it's probably just my imagination.

Howdy. Follow Paul's advice and see for yourself. There are a lot of intellegent and well meaning people on both sides the incredibly thick and tall wall this subject is divided by. In my humble opinion, you should certainly have some pretty ones, at least. Have fun. Charlie

Run for Cover!!!!!
I suggest you read a couple of the threads already at this site. One called "How much Money do you want to waste" and and another called "John Dunlavy on cable nonsense". They are both in the forum cable section. Also search Audioasylum.com on this issue. It's a touchy subject sometimes and may be "talked out" at this site. There is a real divergence of opinion and no concensus it seems.

Actually, I remember your name from one of the threads. You are an electrical engineer-No? I posted a rather tongue in cheek reply to your post. Hope you do not mind the humor. Good Luck. Personally, I think a well designed cable will do and it does not have to be $$$$. Lots of other more important places to upgrade. But that is just me.
Sincerely, I remain