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Cable Synergy???

When I count the number of cables that connect components in my system, I come up with 9 (either sets or singles). Right now, I have cables from 7 different manufacturers in my system:

-SME
-Zu
-Kimber
-Purist
-DH Labs
-Audio Art
-Acoustic Zen

I think that all of them are solid manufacturers, but I can't imagine that this is an 'ideal' or even a smart cable set up. It's just where I have ended up after really figuring out the different parts of my system and going through some pretty significant changes over the past two years. And, when I read that list, I think of some pretty different sonic characteristics. So, two questions:

1-How important is cable synergy? Do you have any experience going from a tangle to a cohesive cable 'loom'?

2-If so, where is a good starting point both in terms of manufacturers and in terms of runs that are the 'foundation'? I don't mind making an investment, but I also do think I'll break the bank on cables.

Thanks.
tjnindc
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,686 posts
 
Question #3...Does your system sound good to you in it's current configuration? If the answer is yes,don't worry about it.It sounds like you have done a lot to get where you are now.If you just want to keep trying/buying cables by all means,do so.Just a few thoughts from a shallow mind!!!
tjnindc OP
91 posts
 
I don't know that I necessarily feel I 'need' to change anything. I have also invested a lot in my equipment, but have not really thought about my cables that much. There is a part of it that feels kind of technical and the more logical side of me says that I want some consistency (aka synergy) in my system to let the strengths come through.

I also don't know that I feel like it is immediate. With some things, I like to do fast upgrades. If I decide that the cabling is important, it is probably something I would change over time--especially since I would likely make a decent investment in the cables.

I hope that makes sense, and I certainly know what you mean about letting sleeping dogs lie--just not one of my strong suits.
xti16
1,525 posts
 
Question #1 Synergy is important but in my opinion but not necessarily to be dedicated to any 1 manufacturer (2 or 3 maybe after all you have to listen and pay for it). Once I tried all cables from the same manufacturer (Nordost) and wasn't impressed enough to spend the bucks. I will admit I didn't make a real serious comparison only because I didn't have the time and wasn't willing to replace everything all at once. Personally I am willing to compare again but this time I would have to try many different combinations to see where I would benefit the most. I did get the Nordost Frey speaker cable for my system. A minor but good tweak for me.

Question #2 1 brand of a cable may sound horrible in a certain system but fantastic on another.

Question #3 from Tpreaves Great advice - But I will add that cables should be the final tweak to your system. Generally those cable 'tweaks' are minor compared to most components in my experience. To me if there is any little difference I would like to change in your system that is when I look to cables in my opinion.
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