2. cables
  3. 192296-1635

What % Of Your System Are Your Cables?

IMO, the “10% rule” for cable expenditure really should be stated as “when you’re building a new system and you have a limited budget, allocate 10% to cables” and I think this is a good idea. But again IMO, this is not necessarily the stopping point. I recently purchased some new cables and I was wondering, hopefully without getting into the cable debate, what percentage of your system do you have invested in cables?  No need to go into brands or actual cost, unless you want to. With my new purchase, I would say I’m around 25% depending on whether you count my analog rig as part of the system price, as I did not buy any new cables for the TT, because my TT has captive cables. Probably up to about 30% without the analog.  I understand the percentage numbers can be highly deceiving if you bought used. 25% used is probably about 50% of your system price if you bought new. Anyway, just curious to see what you’re doing with cables. Be well. 

chayro
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,585 posts
 

I think cables become a necessary component when one finally discovers components that are satisfying. Then there’s an urge to possibly discover more.

I've lived with many different pieces that I felt could use some massaging.

Number one thing is to be sure of your listening space. If that is sorted, what a great opportunity to move forward.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing
1,584 posts
 

These are numbers based on replacement value for all gear and wires.  I am including power distribution and conditioning in “cables” numerator.

Main system - hybrid home theater/two channel: 46% of system cost in cables.

Office system: 53% of system cost in cables.

I have purchased a lot of my gear used and assembled many of my own power cords, so these numbers reflect what I would have to pay retail to duplicate my current setups.  I am guessing many folks look at these percentages and say I am heavily “over cabled”, but I think it’s just right.  When I add new electronics, I can easily hear differences, if they exist, because my cable looms are reasonably capable.

kn

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,277 posts
 

Cost is really not a very good way to determine what wires to use. Unfortunately often it’s pretty much the only thing you know for sure about a particular product.

My mantra is if you don’t know what it is you are paying for don’t pay it.

Or at least buy used. Like cars, new wires depreciate immediately but wires do tend to physically hold up very well over time.

 

 

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