What process do you use to purchase cables?

I usually measure the distance between the components I am hooking together and add a foot or so as I do not have a cabinet where I can take off the back to run the wires. (We made these when I had my shop--made changing components easy!)  I need a little extra length to move components in and out without scratching anything.

Then, I make sure they have gold-plated ends as they do not seem to corrode as much as others.

After that, I pick a fairly well-know manufacturer--Monster seems to have a fairly good line, but there are others.  As for speakers, I run 12/2, and boy has it gotten expensive!  BUT, since I only need a few feet--maybe 20 at the most, and since I use Maggies, I only run one pair of speakers on my main music system (as opposed to the A/V system for TV), so not so bad.

I know many believe that very expensive cables are "better" and I have no problems with that--as a dealer, I LOVED it!  The mark-up is wonderful.  For me, normal cables are just fine, but you buy whatever you think is best for you.

I have been running Audio Research and Magnepan gear since 1974, and I have never had an issue with any of these cable choices.

Cheers!

Lots of reading.

 Then usually order online n pay with a cc. 
 Will call company and see if they have a 30 or so day return policy or trial. 

If I have 3’ interconnects that make my system sound nice and warm….if I reorder a 9’ set of the same model does that mean my system will sound 3 times as warm?

For me the process in which I have the most confidence is to work with my dealer and audition various cables.  If I did not have access to a dealer with good cables from which to choose I would take advantage of The Cable Company loaner program.  In my opinion the components of a system are like ingredients in a recipe and for me, I have to listen to them to make my decision.