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Directional cables - what does that really mean?

Some (most) cables do sound differently depending on which end is connected to which component. It is asserted that the conductor grain orientation is determining the preferential current flow. That might well be, but in most (all) cases the audio signal is AC (electrons going back and forth in the cable), without a DC component to justify a directional flow. Wouldn't that mean that in the 1st order, a phase change should give the same effect as a cable flip?

I'm curious whether there is a different view on this that I have not considered yet.
cbozdog
almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Jim (Jea48), yes I agree. My basic point is that in the case of digital cables, at least, one does not have to necessarily believe in the directionality of wire itself in order to recognize that the direction in which a symmetrically designed cable is connected can make a perceptible difference.

Best regards,
-- Al
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david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Had to choose one of many threads on the topic. Dart hit this one...

On Directionality:

by Roger Skoff // Positive Feedback "Which Way to Run a Cable"

https://positive-feedback.com/audio-discourse/which-way-to-run-a-cable/


nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,972 posts
 
David, you beat me to it. I just read Roger’s article and was going to link it here. FYI, for those interested, read Roger’s other articles on cables at the same site and let it all sink in.

All the best,
Nonoise

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@nonoise  I'll take a look at his other write-ups on cables. Thanks.
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