2. cables
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What's your investment threshold?

This question only goes out to those like myself who enjoy the system gains running better cables bring.  Non-believers can save their money and comments for another thread.

Do you impose on yourself a percentage range for cable spending relative to other components?

Speaking for myself, I do consider cables to be a component decision worthy of budget, but I seem to have stayed in the 10-30% range of what I've spent on other components.  I can't see spending $1k for a cable on a $1k component for example.  I have spent $1,500 for speaker cables for a $6k amp.  That seems nearer the high end of my range but it still fits. 

I realized I haven't planned this as a hard rule, but that's kind of how this has worked out for me over time.  Anyone out there think a much higher percentage is justified?  I won't argue because these improvements are worth all the enjoyment you can get, so more power to you.

jsm71
jl35
4,009 posts
 
also important to consider resale value, as certain brands/models hold value very well for a long time, so willing to spend more for those, as ultimate cost is low...
jsm71 OP
141 posts
 

Does $1,500 speaker cables count as compared to your amp, or your speakers, or both?

That's compared to the amp. I should have compared against the speakers.  I went back and compared all cables against all other components and I'm actually at about 25% cables vs. components.

I don't aim at these percentages, but I guess I have a sensibility filter that stays active.

ebm
9,311 posts
 
I buy what sounds best in my Magico Q3 system price is less impotant to me.My goal is the best sound for my system of course i would not spend 25k on speaker cable etc.What ever you get enjoy!!
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
$99 for quality speaker hook-up (actually got away with spending only $50 instead)
$20...50 for each pair of interconnects (MAX)

kodak805
74 posts
 
I fully agree with ebm.  I buy the best i can afford.  I do not wish to limit the performance of my components by saving a few dollars on cables.  I consider cables as part of the unit they connect.

I avoid any manufacturer who expects you to buy their products on faith without revealing their construction or specifications.  These would be more marketing oriented. They have more cables in their product line than they can invent names for.  I look for a unified theme or approach for all the cables in a company's line.  They should be able to demonstrate why that design is superior to others.

I favor Analysis Plus who employ degreed engineers and avoid advertising hype.  I also use TARA Labs wide bandwidth designs.  Their construction techniques, materials, specifications and  are exemplary.   I have used TARA cables since 1998.  Their sound in my system is unsurpassed by anything else in my 55 year experience  as an audiophile. 
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