2. cables
  3. 136918-109343

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
Post removed 
Post removed 
taww's avatar
taww
128 posts
 
[dammit, Audiogon keeps messing up, hence the deleted posts above.]

@mayoradamwest where in the Bay Area are you? If you're in SF, you can borrow a couple things from me to try. An upgrade to Mogami Gold for XLR that doesn't cost crazy money would be something like the DH Labs Air Matrix, which also comes in a DIY raw version you can terminate yourself if you're handy. There is also the retro tinned Belden wire which is cheap and sounds pretty good, though I think that comes only in RCA.


TBH with a B+W and Rotel combo, I'm guessing your system is quite bright and you probably want a warmer, less neutral cable to balance it out. BTW since people mention Silverline, I have their SR 17 Supreme speakers in my house and they are superb, if you'd like to give them a listen.

bigjohn9095's avatar
bigjohn9095
47 posts
 
I spent hours reading, searching, scanning discussion comments, and researching before I ended up buying all new cables from James. I’m very pleased with them and they didn’t cost a fortune. I went with the vintage Western Electric wire for my Interconnects and the 4x10 Reference 100 for my main speaker cables. Solid, handmade, quality stuff in my opinion. Good Luck!

https://www.schmittcustomaudiocables.com
Ag insider logo xs@2x
mayoradamwest OP
430 posts
 
@bigjohn9095 thanks! Will check them out 

as for my selection in speakers. I already have he 805D3 and love them. I have listened to many many speakers on my way to deciding on 802D3 next but will keep listening. For my ear, as a professional orchestral and jazz musician, nothing comes close to reproducing an orchestra sound than the 802 in my price range. There is just something right about the brilliance and clarity. If listening to older recordings, that ets lost regardless, but if listening to modern recordings there is something special about the B&W sound. Love it. I’m still considering Focal Sopras (which I have heard) but wasn’t convinced on clarity on my first listen. Anyway, I was trying to focus this discussion on cables. I am already quite happy with direction the sound is going with the Rotel, but admit I’ve got my eye on a Pass Labs X350.8 for when I get the full range speakers. 
More to discover