2. cables
  3. 186344-178346

I need advice on Dissimilar runs using XLR

I have a tri-amped system where the 2 SS amps are very close to the speakers. I need to make 2 runs to the SS amps from the crossover. One run is 1m the other run is 6m. All my components are balanced XLR in/outs.

My questions are:

1) Will unequal lengths of XLR make a noticeable difference between the L and R channel? and;

2) I’d like to get the best value for the buck for proper interconnects, so what brand do you recommend and why?

3) What are the problems (if any) of using 2 different quality brands with identical metals. (I may buy single cables used)

Anybody can pop off $3000 for a set of nice cables, but I’m searching for value. I’m good with used.

ARC SP15, ARC VT130 amp, Morrow 4 interconnects, Bryston 7Bsst2 monoblocks (for the woofers) Bryston 10B X-over & Model T speakers. Sources vary- Rotel CD, HD with hi res rips, computer, retired the phono- deteriorating vinyl wore me out but I do have a unplayed Slim Whitman album in reserve :)

128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xyesiam_a_pirate
ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,707 posts
 

@yesiam_a_pirate Wrote:

 I was probably OCD worried about it way too much. 

I agree!

Mike

jaytor's avatar
jaytor
742 posts
 

I have tried both equal length and different length XLR cables and I could not tell the difference. However, this was with a preamp with plenty of drive (low output impedance) into a fairly high impedance input. It's possible that a high capacitance cable with a source that has fairly high output impedance would have a more noticeable difference. 

Keep in mind that in a studio environment, or live venue, balanced cables of wildly different lengths are used. 

I have, however, noticed a difference with speaker cables of significantly different lengths and try to avoid this. I've found that shorter speaker cables are always better and given the choice of short speaker cables or short balanced interconnects, the former is the clear winner. 

I have tried a number of different balanced cables (probably close to a dozen types). My favorite is Iconoclast 4x4 UP-OCC, but I've also had good luck with Mogami 2549 cable. The Mogami cable is much less expensive and nearly as good as the Iconoclast (in my system with my ears). Amazon sells a brand called Worlds Best Cables that uses this Mogami  bulk cable with Neutrik connectors. I recently bought four 25ft cables for $140 total. Exceptional value.

tweak1
3,545 posts
 

Get/make both a 1m and a 6m pair and compare

More to discover