If what you mean by flat out defective, it doesn’t need to be that to mess with the signal. I’ve lots of cables laying around of many types and each one sounds different.
Some are close sounding in most areas and some vary a lot. Do you think that a 30 something gauge, single silver wire IC in a basically air dielectric can’t sound demonstrably different form a run of the mill, copper stranded Blue Jeans IC?
Where’s my Barolo?
And Andy2, you’re arguing the same point of view I am but stubbornly limiting yourself to just your way of seeing things. Step back and take a breath. But, if it’s the last word you need to have, then by all means, you can have it.
I see you posted whilst I typed so allow me another dragon of yours to slay. Your stipulation about how components factor in has nothing to do with me as my observations are with equipment already broken in. They are a constant in all of this. Stop with the Red Herrings.
All the best,
Nonoise
