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Recommendations for PC -- for modest system --

Looking for recommendations for PC for a modest AV system -- I know all things audio are personal preference - but still want feedback on experiences with PCs under the the <$400ish mark - 

My meager system:

Marantz 7705
ATI 7ch x 200 amp
B&W CDM9NT x4 plus matching center

Budget - is low compared to many here - but still looking for some solid guidance - <$400 for each PC for amp and AVP. If I can spend less - that is ideal - Not looking to squeeze every last bit of sweetness from my AV system - just want something that is a balance between - far better than stock PCs -- and improves system overall - on the exponential curve of price vs performance.

Considering the following: 

Morrow
Audioquest - one primary reason I am considering AQ - I can purchase at 45% msrp...
Nordost
Raven
Madscientist - unfamiliar but seem a few here have exp with them... 
Cullen
DIY?  -- Can I approach equal or better quality - for less if I DIY with the likes of with neo or dh cable or other with WG or other connectors... Is it worth the effort to DIY at budget I have set? 
Synergistic Research - considering - but I see none in the <$500 range... 

Thanks in advance.


lightfighter2018
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Why is DIY not a good option if I am using essentially what other DIY houses are using? Why wouldn't results be comparable?

millercarbon seems to be completely against DIY and has consistently pushed Synergistic Research as a solution for any problem.  One man's opinion.  I have been doing DIY cables for 10+ years and some of my cables have beat out other more expensive manufactured cables.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
Cullen, Audio Envy, Audio Sensibility, all very good.  Move up to Inakustik if you want something really good, but it might be out of your budget.
jaytor's avatar
jaytor
766 posts
 
DIY is a great option, particularly if you are on a budget and not looking for anything really esoteric. Wire/cable companies generally don't offer their very best cable for bulk purchases, but there are great options that are equivalent to finished cables costing $500 to $1500. 

The DH Labs Red Wave cable that @knownothing  mentioned is a good example. This cable sells bulk for $40/ft or less (I think Parts Connexion has this on sale for $30/ft right now). Couple with higher-end connectors from WattGate or Furutech, and add some TechFlex (optional) and you have a PC that will cost you $300 to $400 (not including your time) that would cost you twice that as a finished product and is an excellent PC.

If your budget is lower, using DH Labs Power Plus with lower cost WattGate (or Viborg or HifiKing if you want to spend even less) will get you a power cord that is way better than stock cables for about $100. 
kren0006
1,859 posts
 
Audio Art cables
tooblue
1,941 posts
 
Having very good results with the Silnote Audio GL Reference power cables, easily has beaten out some offerings from some of the more well known brands in my system.Silnote advertised here on Agon and their prices are right for a very well made cable, $99.00 for a 3 ft. run. Cullen cable is another I have had very positive results with. Enjoy the music
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