Different lengths of interconnects ??????



Have you ever tried using a pair of interconnects in different lengths to connect preamp and mono block amps? Can it cause one channel delay or any phase problems?

My Preamp is placed on left side behind my active ATC speakers, but I always use a pair of interconnects in same length between my preamp and the built-in power amp of my speakers.

Now I have a chance to buy pair of Valhalla XLR interconnects in different lengths, one 1.7m and another 3.5m, from another city. They are just about the right length from my preamp to left and right channel of my speakers, and price is good. I am not sure if it is OK to use interconnects in this way. Anyone have this experience?

Many thanks!
zdeng

I wonder if there is anyone who has compared the unequal length of interconnects personally and can hear or feel the differences? On the other hand, one might not be able to tell the difference at the beginning, but feel uncomfortable after long listening?

The differences caused by unequal length of interconnects may not only be the speed of Electrical signals travel. The unbalance of capacitance, inductance and phase may cause more problems, but those differences may be too subtle to tell.

It is very interesting that most member in Audioasylum believe the cables must in equal length for both channel, but I do not know if they can tell the differences when the cables are in unequal length.
>>It is very interesting that most member in Audioasylum believe the cables<<

Right. That's where all the "experts" hang out.

All you need is a keyboard to play.

:-)
Inductance, capacitance, & phase should be non issues in any properly designed IC found in typical system lengths. As far as "what most people believe", this is how the myths & urban legends begin that leave the unknowing needlessly chasing their tails.
It is very interesting that most member in Audioasylum believe the cables must in equal length for both channel, but I do not know if they can tell the differences when the cables are in unequal length.

Not surprised at that. It is a good rule of thumb especially if one side is very much longer. I would not use unequal lengths but then again I would not spend so much on cables so it does not matter to me as the cost to get equal lengths is a negligible issue.

My suggestion would be to buy some less expensive highly respected Mogami XLR from a music shop or something with Canare wire or whatever floats you boat. Spend only $100 bucks or less and get equal lengths.

The draw back is that that these XLR cables are not called "Valhalla" and few audiophiles will go "ooo", "ahh" and "wow" when they peruse your virtual system one day to ask you about cable synergy. You might even get the opposite...questions like how in your right mind can you connect those great speakers with ordinary wires...no gold no silver ? If these comments make you feel insecure then by all means spend the extra money (like the ladies who only wear Prada) but then as the man from ING says in the adds you could also be smart and "Save your Money".
I ended up with two different lengths of interconnects. Absolutely no difference at all.