I’ve built cables for years, most recently a few subwoofer cables for my RELs (3) made from Canare /Neutrik/AQ plugs...it’s fun and who does’t like heat shrink tubing? However, I recently bought a 13 1/2’ foot pair of the newest version of the Kimber Kable 8PR speaker cables that now use the "varistrand" copper...they’re amazingly good and were 426 bucks bucks a pair. Go figure.
Not Chinese Fakes But Not big $$$ Either
Tired and bored after reading 11 pages of posts about Chinese Counterfeit Cables (guilty of a couple entries myself), and looking for a DYI project, I decided to split the difference between Cheap Fakes and outrageous prices for name brand American made cables. After doing lots of research and reading I selected bulk "CHELA" speaker cable from VHAudio https://www.vhaudio.com/speakercables.html and connectors, shrink tube etc, from AV Outlet https://www.avoutlet.com/av-cables-connectors/av-connectors/speaker/furez-sp8-wp38xlnp/
This has been a fun project and a first for me. The total cost was +/- $400 per 8 foot cable. Given the quality of materials, such as 48 strand OCC copper wires, which translates to 10 AWG, I think the cost is very reasonable. I try to build as much as I can but mostly it has been woodworking in the past. I encourge everyone to try their hand at projects. It's always more rewarding than shoveling cash at retailers. If you're interested, here's the project in detail.
Cheers
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@bigtwin how did these cables turn out and sound? Worth the effort and 💰? Just curious since I have made DIY cables from VH Audio. |
@tksteingraber They sound as good as any cable I have owned. Was able to switch in and out with XLO Signature 3 - 5.2 and Silversmith Fidelium cables. I couldn't really tell the difference between the three sets. Maybe I don't belong to the Golden Ear Club, or maybe it's really difficult to hear a difference once you start comparing well build cables. Cost wise, I spent +/- $1000 (CDN) for an 8 foot pair. That made them the least expensive of the three sets by quite a bit. I really enjoyed the project. For me, building is always more enjoyable than simply buying. So in summary, I would say the cables are a winner. I have sold the XLO and the VH Audio Chela speaker cable is now in the system long term. |
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- 54 posts total