Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC

Hi Rinpoche,

Regarding interconnects, if I recall correctly all of the equipment possibilities that have been mentioned would be suitable for use with balanced XLR interconnects.  While opinions about cable selection tend to be all over the map, as you may have seen in any number of other cable-related threads, FWIW my suggestion is that initially, at least, you simply purchase some inexpensive Mogami Gold Studio balanced cables.  And who knows, despite their modest price you may find them to be suitable for use permanently. 

Those cables, by the way, are the de facto interconnect of choice in professional recording studios worldwide.

Best,
-- Al
 

Excellent advice. I will look into them. Thanks!!! A good place to start. 

Cables are about system synergy...no such animal as the best. I have an all Jeff Rowland system driving Monitor Audio PL500's and I use Wireworld Platinum interconnect and power cables. I use Wireworld Silver Eclipse 7 speaker cable. There are too many possible combinations, so try a couple and choose what sounds best to your ears.

rinpoche,

Was curious if you knew which ICs were used during your audition from the vantage point of if you liked the sound it might be a consideration for you without others' preference bias (including mine).  Just a thought. 

Yes, Mogami cables. One of the reasons why the recordings are of poor quality. They are okay at best nothing more. You don't want this stuff for Rowland and VAC. DiMarzio is better, I still keep the RCA pair, but I don't think he makes them any longer. For serious comparison I would try Purist, High Fidelity, Stealth, Jorma, Tara, Wireworld. They might all give an excellent but somewhat different sound. Then it will be a matter of taste.