2. cables
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Recommend a Cable/Interconnect Set

I know this issue stirs controversy and can spark "vigorous dissent" (understatement), but I was looking for some recommendations on both speaker cables and interconnects for my system.

Can you guys suggest a modestly priced but high performance set of cables? I know 'modestly' covers a lot of ground, so what would be extremely helpful is some sort of "buyer's guide" to offer insight on what characteristics to look for, how to decide what you need, and how to set a budget so that I, and others reading on or those new to this pastime, can make a more informed decision.

Though I subscribe to the basic premise that the more you spend, the better it gets, I also know there is also a point of diminishing returns on the price:performance curve.

My equipment is:
HiFiBerry DAC
Krell KRC-3
Bryston 4BST
Dahlquist DQ10* (see below)
Polk PSW650

Right now, I have Monster XPHP going to the speakers, and an old set of Monster interconnects from the DAC to the Krell. Lengths for interconnects can be as short as 1.5 or 2 feet, since all my electronics are together, out in the open, and accessible from behind.

So, I figure I'll need:
1x Balanced (Krell to Bryston)
2x RCA (one for the DAC to Krell, the other Krell to PSW)
1 set speaker cables ~8-10 ft

Hit me. I'm all ears. Those of you who have indluged me in other similar questions of this type (i.e. power amp, preamp) know I take your input seriously and act on it, so this isn't just an exercise.

Thanks in advance for all your help!


(* - At some point in the future, I hope to buy a set of CLSII's, so kindly factor that into the recommendation since it doesn't make sense to buy a set of cables and find they're not up to the task down the road)
parabolic
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
@inna , I specifically asked for HOW to set a budget, so I can't answer your question about what my budget is just yet.

Does one allocate a percentage (i.e. 10%) of the cost of the equipment?  For example, if my system has an original MSRP of $6000, do I allocate $600 for cables?  If so, then how does one break down that budget - do you spend more on speaker cables than on interconnects or do you divide it equally?

Your other question is very good.  What are the downsides of purchasing used cables?

Folks, just to be clear, I have no desire to get into the upgrade game.  Starting with 'entry level' cables and then having to upgrade later seems a waste of money to me - unless what I'm asking for is, in the grand scheme of things - considered 'entry level'.  I know people who spent as much on an entire system as you guys do for a halfway decent balanced cables, so I guess it's all relative.

I don't mind spending the money, but I want to spend it once and get it done.  However, there's no sense in buying cables that are vastly superior to the equipment they're connected to any more than it makes sense to put a $7000 supercharger onto a Toyota Yaris... if 'ya know what I mean.

Thanks again in advance for the input!
inna
7,296 posts
 
" vastly superior' - no, just as good as the equipment - yes.
I heard that there are some fake cables, buy only from sellers that look and sound reliable. Worn connectors can be one issue, bent cables in the wrong places another.
This is my opinion. Forget about suggested retail prices, think in terms of real dollars that you would have to pay. Same with the equipment. Though it may vary, I think 20 % or so of the cost of the entire system is reasonable. Also depends on how many sources you have. I have three sources, though usually use only two.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,412 posts
 
Check out The Cable Company. They have a lending library whereby you can audition different cables for a fee (which is deducted from a purchase).

Call them and they will make recommendations based on your budget and your components.
sgunther
187 posts
 
I have been very pleased with Grover Huffman cables. Reasonably priced, 60 day trial and trade in if he comes out with a upgrade.
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
@inna Since I built my system using older components that were pre-owned, would it not make sense to compare apples to apples by looking at the cost of pre-owned cables?  I have all of about $3000 into the DAC, Krell, Bryston, Polk and Dahquists.  Do you think I possibly get a decent set of cables other than what Best Buy carries that would do justice to my equipment by spending $600?

@lowrider57 That's a clever business model, and I'd certainly do that especially given the fact that they're only about 2 hours South of me in PA.  However their prices don't exactly seem competitive.  In fact, they look to be anywhere from 25% to 50% more than everyone else for any given item.  It's one thing to apply the 'rental' fee to a purchase, but holding you hostage by not being price competitive is a real turn-off.  I'm from New Jersey originally... I know what making an "offer you can't refuse" looks like when I see it.  ;-)
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