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
I agree 100% w/david_ten’s advice. The Cable Co. has a database on cable for equipment (based on user info, I believe). Do give them a call.

At the same time, there will be brands that "fly" under The Cable Co. radar. You might want to at least research some of these. They represent high-value offerings and won’t break the bank.

Power (for DAC & Pre-Amp) - Shunyata Venom (Actually, The Cable Co. does carry this line and has good pricing right now). Pangea 14SE power cords. Not everyone is in love with the larger gauge Pangea 9xx series but I think, for sources, the 14xx series is very good.

USB to DAC - I’ve been very impressed with an Oyaide NEO d+ Class A cable (Class A, not Class B). Noticeably better than an all silver Pangea and an all copper Audioquest I have.

XLR - Mogami Gold Studio Neglex Quad Microphone Cable. You can spend more, but why? Let your ears be the judge. In my system, this holds its own in the company of Cardas Golden Ref., AQ Columbia, Harmonic Tech Pro Silway II & Cabledyne Copper Reference. A killer bargain by comparison.

Speaker Cable - Clear Day Double Shotgun cable. Very impressed with Paul’s wire and prefer it by a good margin over Morrow Audio SP-4 cable. Others that are well regarded but which I’ve not heard: Signal Cable and Audio Art.

No guarantee what sounds good with my gear (or to my ears) will work for you.  Just some ideas to check out.  ALSO - Opinions about cable are like a certain bodily orifice. Everybody’s got one. Good luck in your hunt.





Thanks, Ghosthouse!

One thing I've been trying to figure out is who makes a USB-C cable for Hifi? If I get any of them on Audiogon that I see, they all use USB-A from the computer, but that would force me to use the standard Apple USB-C to USB-A adapter.
Sorry Mayor!  I'm clueless about that Type C termination.  I had to look it up.  See link here.  

https://www.howtogeek.com/211843/usb-type-c-explained-what-it-is-and-why-youll-want-it/

That might be a question to post as a separate thread on A'gon and/or to ask about over on the Computer Audiophile site.  Before starting a new thread though, enter Type C USB in the "search discussions" box and see if it has come up here.  If so, I missed it but then I always was a "late adopter".  Good luck.