XLR cables for a reasonable price?


I've seen lots of threads where it is stated that balanced components are "insensitive" to cables.  Does this mean that spending a lot of money on XLR cables is probably unnecessary, as it offers no sonic benefit over cheaper XLR cables?

I would like some recommendations on reasonably priced XLR cables that give excellent sonic performance.  Thanks for your replies.

hifinut51

I would like some recommendations on reasonably priced XLR cables that give excellent sonic performance.  

“Excellent sonic performance” doesn’t really help as we all hear and value certain sonic traits differently.  What specific sonic characteristics are you looking for, what are you using now, and what improvements would you like to achieve?  This critical info will get you much better recommendations more targeted to your specific tastes.

I have had my XLR cables made up by ProAudioLA (a pro-audio shop in Los Angeles) for years now. You can have them made with Neutrik XLRs and Mogami W2549 cable and will be hard pressed to get better results than that. Similar cables are now sold on Amazon by a firm called "World’s Best Cables." I prefer ProAudioLA, as I can have the cables made to the exact length needed, with the exact color-coding needed, and I'm supporting a local small business. Whatever you do, I hope you have a ball!

P.S. Because I use long XLR interconnects, I was only able to get one (well-known) audiophile manufacturer to let me try their cables. They were noticeably colored compared to much cheaper ones from ProAudioLA. So I saved about $1,400 on that pair.

@soix Currently, I am using a Primaluna integrated tube amp.

However, I am transitioning to a fully balanced system, with Atma-Sphere MP-3.3 preamp and Atma-Sphere Class D amps.  
These components, as well as my source components (DAC and phono preamp) are fully balanced.

Just wondering if it is necessary to buy ultra-expensive XLR interconnects to get the most out these components.

My speakers are Acoustic Zen Crescendo Mk II.

 

Mogami XLR ($125). I directly compared them to my Audioquest Tbirds at $3600. Yes, the Audioquest's are better all around, but you really need to listen intently to ascertain a difference. Jaw-dropping performance on the cheap!

What a great system!  Congrats!!!  I’ve heard Ralph @atmasphere say here many times that if components follow the “balanced standard” (that I think he may have a patent for) the differences between interconnects becomes basically nonexistent and take him at his word.  Hopefully he’ll chime in here for the final word/recommendations.  If true as advertised you could potentially save a bundle on wires, and wouldn’t that be a nice little bonus?