2. cables
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What process do you use to purchase cables?

I’m in the process of updating my gear and thinking about what to do for updated cables. Every time I think about it, my head spins as there are so many different cable options & companies. I struggle to even start the process.

I don’t care if it’s speaker cables, interconnects or power cords – Just explain what you typically do to nail down your purchase.

FYI – my past “process” was to simply purchase whatever I found to be the most affordable options recommended by folks on this board. For that reason, I’m currently using Canare 4S11 speaker cables, Mogami Gold interconnects, and Pangea power cords.

Since I’m planning to push my component updates to significantly higher quality gear, I don’t want to fall short on the cable side. If you have a process, let’s hear it! Thanks


dfairc777a
emergingsoul
1,169 posts
 
Find a widely known brand that is associated with very high end systems, carried by upper end dealers and be willing to spend a few thousand. Also, talk to manuf and describe your system. They may advise beyond cables. 

Initially try cheaper cables $500 or so for mains and center. I now use these in other systems i have. 

breakin periods, availability, etc make it diff to borrow and test 

 I have transparent super cables, and they are very good.

buy on faith and have patience during breakin period.
rifraf4u
31 posts
 
The whole cable argument is snake oil. Please.buy a good set of 10 or 12 gauge speaker cables and call it a day. Dare any of you in a blind test.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
The whole cable argument is snake oil.

Right. That’s why so many people hear differences and so many companies are in business selling cables. Clearly, everyone has been fooled simultaneously. Most amazing con ever! If only we could get them to blind tests...oh wait.
rifraf4u
31 posts
 
So many people hear a difference because of unconscious or perhaps even conscious bias. Your article actually makes my point, so thank you for posting it!
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
The opponent of cable differences has to maintain that *all* testimony regarding differences heard can be traced to unconscious or conscious bias. That is hardly proved and may not even be *provable.* But...thank you for setting the bar so high for your position. If you manage to leap over it, with more than mere assertion or scraps of evidence, it will be a monumental discovery for both audio and psychology! In the meantime, since you like my article posts, here's another.
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