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XLR (Balanced) interconnect cable question

Hi,
Right now I'm using XLR cables between my Parasound amplifier and processor based on Canare L-4E6S cabling. Since I'm upgrading my processor to a much higher level (Marantz AV8805 to Lyngdorf MP-60) I'm looking to upgrade my cabling also. Don't want to go crazy. Here are my options:- Wireworld Equinox 8 XLR- Cullen Cable Copper Series XLR Interconnects:  Interconnect Features:
  • Super Flexible 8mm PVC Outer Jacket
  • 98% Shield constructed of 99.9% Pure OFC copper wire with drain wire which will eliminate EFI and RF
  • 18 awg 99.99% Pure OFC Copper Conductors
  • Teflon dielectric which provides an extremely high signal transfer and accurate sound quality
  • Covered with black Techflex sleeving
  • Made in the USA with professional grade materials
  Connectors:

 XLR’s Nuetrik X series with 24K gold plated Pins

- Schmitt Custom Audio cable WE Balanced XLR Black Gold InterconnectsSchmitt Custom Audio Western Electric 3 pin Balanced XLR Interconnects are built with vintage 24 gauge solid core copper Western Electric wire covered with silk cloth from the 1940's and 1950's era. Each strand is covered with black, platinum and red sleeves, then loosely braided and soldered to Neutrik 3 pin males and female connectors with black shells and 24kt gold plated pins.
The Wireworld cable is well reviewed, however the Schmitt cable uses the Western Electric vintage wire (also well reviewed). Cullen Cable is know for good, affordable products.
Any thoughts? Thank you.

128x128mhaanraadts
mhaanraadts's avatar
mhaanraadts OP
3 posts
 
Back in the analog days I definitely could hear a difference with analog cables. Never did with digital cables.

The dealer I bought the Chord cables from thought I made a mistake by going “cheap”. He recommended to test various cables and that’s what I will do. I have the Canare, a set of Belden and now the Chord cables. If I can’t hear a difference I will stick with the Chord. Otherwise time to upgrade… I have 13 channels going so the cables won’t go to waste.
fiesta75
1,378 posts
 
Kimber are very good cables and not that expensive.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,702 posts
 
I wasn't aware there were so many psychologists spending their spare time on audio forums, diagnosing audiophiles. That, or there's a bunch of people projecting their deficiencies on others. 

All the best,
Nonoise
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,399 posts
 
As I said above....your components should be differentially balanced for you to get the best from your connections....there is very little difference among cables when using XLR's  Most components are not differentially balanced because there needs to be separate circuits for + and -.....much more expensive. Most XLR connections are a sales attraction with little benefit
mitch2
3,760 posts
 
I wasn’t aware there were so many psychologists spending their spare time on audio forums, diagnosing audiophiles. That, or there’s a bunch of people projecting their deficiencies on others.
So, its ok to post endlessly here about nano particles, quantum this and that, wire orientation, etc., and how people hear profound improvements in the sound of their systems resulting from these things, yet it is somehow off limits to discuss psychological factors that could affect what people believe they hear. BTW, the use of psychological motivation in marketing products is not unique to the audio industry. I have no issue with people spending whatever they want to spend on cables for whatever reason. If you want to make a point or have a discussion then do so, but try to bring something of value to the table.
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