Which interconnect cable to upgrade first


Hi,  just a hopefully simple question.   I'm considering upgrading my interconnect cable in my digital system which looks like this:

Network Streamer -> Preamp -> Power Amp

If I were to only upgrade one cable, which one should I upgrade first?   The one from source to preamp, or the one from preamp to power amp.   IOW, which will give me bigger bang for the buck.

Any suggestions, opinions, advices, or experiences are appreciated.   Thanks very much.

xcool

 

[@xcool] Hey @ghdprentice I remember running the cables 24 hrs straight for 4 or 5 days from my source to my preamp. The preamp was off when I wasn’t listening.

I did like a few things about the cable between my source and preamp. Very spacious and details. I did wish I can hear a little more bass, and a bit warmer. From what I understand, the Clear Reflection is supposed to have the warmth of the typical Cardas cable with extra details from their Clear line up.

Curious about your experience with Cardas. Thanks!

 

@xcool > Believe it or not - most of the versions of Cardas interconnects i’ve owned or demoed in the past 30yrs sounded different, yet one factor typically remained fairly constant (Including all former Golden series and the newer hybrid Clear Reflections i tried as well). Resting in place, connected, and not touching them for at least 14+ days; Playing or not... Relaxing the tension of the dielectric inside (used or new IC cables) after being coiled up in a bag or box, matters too. It smooths out a little bit more over time. Only way to know is to try it first hand and validate it yourself. Best of luck.

 

 

Hey @ghdprentice ​​​​@decooney , thanks for the suggestions!   I've been thinking about tube preamp for some time, I might give it a try one day.    

@xcool ..." I've been thinking about tube preamp for some time, I might give it a try one day."  

There is a chance you may decide to change interconnects again if you go with a tube preamp -or- if/when you upgrade tubes later on. 

 

@decooney 

 

Probably. You want your components to perfectly reflect the sound you want, then upgrade your cables, interconnects, and power cords… tweak your audio space/ Then enjoy, until your next upgrade cycle.