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Cable Controversy

I love the cable forum. Discussions about cable can really generate sparks among the mature audiophiles. Regarding cable design: Other than the basics of resistance, impedance, and conductance, it seems that there is very little firm ground upon which one can form convincing conclusions. Witness the bewildering array of cable designs, incoporating network boxes, magnets, biased shields, liquid conductors, solid core, braided strands, exotic metals, air dialectrics, to name but a few. In contrast: Regarding balanced cables, at least one experienced poster and equipment designer has stated here that all balanced cables perform identically, once a few basic design parameters are met.  I ask for the voices of experience and sanity to offer their theories and experience on the topic of cable design and performance. Thanks in advance.
psag
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
I've owned much gear and cables of all variety in many systems and in various environments.  After 30 years, one thing has survived the test of time...my choice of cabling.  Now, more than ever, MIT delivers true audiophile performance.  Large spacious sound stage, oodles of low level detail, micro and macro dynamics to die for, tone beyond reproach, extreme extension/control and flexible designs which adapt to various systems!  Simply the best

hifiman5's avatar
hifiman5
1,832 posts
 
@dave_b When you mention "flexible designs" can we assume you have owned a variety of cables over time all manufactured my MIT?

psag OP
518 posts
 
When the system, or some part of the system is flawed and/or colored, we seek to correct it by using different flavors of cables. In contrast, when the individual components are well-balanced, full-range, and neutral, we naturally gravitate towards high-quality cables that have all the same virtues. At audio shows, in the best rooms, we see a clustering of high quality components, transducers, and cable looms that share these virtues. As a general rule, you do not see in these rooms a mixing and matching of different brands of cables and pricepoints.
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
Hifiman5, yes...various MIT CABLES over the years and many many many alternative cable designs used as well.  After awhile you start to learn what consistently seems to grab you and compel you to listen over and over again!  Only MIT and Transparent cables have ever done that for me.
hifiman5's avatar
hifiman5
1,832 posts
 
Then you are all set!  There is a certain sense of satisfaction and certainty once you find what works for you and how you perceive sound.  I supposed I am there with speakers more so than cables as I have owned and own Vandersteen speakers for 30+ years now.  The Treo CTs that I recently purchased are by far the greatest realization for me of Richard Vandersteen's design prowess.  What sounds like music to him sounds so to me as well.  Couldn't be happier.
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