2. cables
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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
instlouis's avatar
instlouis
91 posts
 
Hey Mayor - 

Everyone is happy to spend your money for you , but you're asking about cables and not speakers ( your B&W's are great ...keep them until you're ready for B&W upgrades ).   B&W's love Kimber Kables . I know because I use the Hero's for my interconnects and speaker connects ( bi-wired ) for my 802 D's and I love the clarity , the headroom, and the wonderful soundstage.  

I agree with grinnell that Zu Audio cables are excellent. I use their Mission A/C cables for most of my system and Cardas Gold Reference for my amps.  ( You can get Zu cables for great prices on eBay ! ) 

Happy hunting and listening my friend ! 
hemi04's avatar
hemi04
57 posts
 
+1 for the kimber Hero’s very good cable works well with B&W
soix
9,730 posts
 
Ah, I get it now.  So, you want an "improvement" in your cables.  What exact aspects of sound reproduction are you looking to improve upon versus your current cables?  If you can't answer this specifically, I think you may be putting the cart before the horse. 

IMO you shouldn't even be contemplating wires or whether Rotel electronics are compatible with B&W 802s (a complete mismatch BTW).  If Magnolia is your current frame of reference you haven't even scratched the surface of awesome sound, and you really need to get out and hear other systems.  As I mentioned earlier, search out and visit other true high-end dealers in your area (you definitely have some around there), even if that means driving an hour or so.  That will start to give you a better perspective of what you like and what you're missing, and then you can identify what your next logical step should be.  I'm on the other coast and have no idea where your good dealers are, but as I mentioned earlier I'm pretty sure Silverline Audio is in your area and at the very least you should go there and hear what Alan has set up.  I'm confident that it would be a very valuable experience and one I certainly wish I could take advantage of.  

Sorry to be preachy here, but I'm really just trying to save you some time and money. 

ron1319
57 posts
 
Silverline is in Walnut Creek according to their website but isn’t in Google Maps and only has a P.O. Box on their website.
beme54
16 posts
 
Call Hugh at Music Lovers. 510-558-1000. They have two stores in the Bay Area. Tell Hugh Jeff Kalina sent you!! He is very special musical genius.
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