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Kind of a dumb question...

If you own two pairs of ICs that are not of the same quality, is there a rule of thumb as to which one should be used between the source (CD player) and preamp versus between the preamp and amp? I know someone out there is going to tell me to experiment and come to my own conclusion, and I'll do that. But I'm curious to know if there's a general rule of thumb.
rockyboy
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
What about a third possibility?

No preference because no difference noticed.
sounds_real_audio
1,018 posts
 
The rule of thumb is that there is no rule of thumb. You have to experiment and see which way you like it best, not me or anyone else!!!!
plutos
224 posts
 
With passive preamp there is a general rule that lower capacity (often shorter and better) cable between preamp and amp works better.
With active You can experiment and find out which combination You like most.
But don`t expect a "HUGE" difference from a cable. A decent cable is all You need.
pops
2,275 posts
 
Mr. Tennis is dead on, much to consider and if you ever do a cable shootout make detailed notes
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
4,187 posts
 
Mr Tennis very very good answer.
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