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
ericsch
753 posts
 
The Analog Room is in Campbell.

dimora's avatar
dimora
61 posts
 
Canare/ Blue Jeans Cable.

USB cables don’t matter.  It’s 1’s and 0’s.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
mayoradamwest OP
430 posts
 
@dimora as a tech guy I’d normally agree about USB, but I’ve seen some reasonable arguments about transmission of unwanted signal across the wire with the 1s and 0s. This is why it’s so tough to separate snake oil out. It’s easy to find people who swear all of these things make huge differences. I’m going to call the Cable Company today to at least look at a starter kit and will keep my eyes open on Audiogon. Again, appreciate all the advice in this thread. 
johnnyb43's avatar
johnnyb43
33 posts
 
Ok so I didn't read all the suggestions but I'm sure someone mentioned cable company for loaner cables. .but they charge a non refundable deposit of 5 percent so if you don't like any of the cables you have money you can't get back...screw that, go to a great audiogon member /seller highend-electronics talk with Alfred about demo cable's they won't hit you with a fee and he gives you  30 days to decide! Man you can't beat that.best of luck on your journey. 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Alfred of High End Electronics is superb. I've purchased product from him and will likely do so again in the future. My full signal cable loom is all SR, a line he represents. This post is in no way meant to detract from him, his business, and his product line.

He carries 3 lines of cables. Let me repeat that: 3 as in THREE!

His least expensive IC comes in at $699. 

Johnny B Serious! Yup, "can't beat that." 
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