Directional interconnect cables

DCstep, is this correct? I thought you always pointed in the direction of music flow i.e., source to preamp, preamp to amp and amp to speaker. Doesn't this assure that the grounded end of the shield is properly oriented? If not, I've been doing it wrong for 20 years.

I disagree! On my MIT cables, the arrows point to the end with the box, which goes downstream. My interconnects even have a marker that has an arrow that says signal flow, pointing in the direction of the arrow (which puts the network box downstream). Maybe it's best to check with the manufacturer.

Yes, check with your manufacturer. On some the arrrows will only serve to connect them consistantly if they're undone or moved. If there is no grounding theme, then the electrons don't give a rip which way they run; however, once the cable is burned-in, then the dielectric sets into a charge that will impact the sound of the cable, which is probably 90% of the "burn-in" effect. While even touching it or moving it can impact the charge, reattaching consistantly will reduce the time needed to settle in.

Analysis Plus and several other makers do indeed ground at one end. For these it's important to attach to a common ground.

Dave

I totally agree with Narrod. This is the correct orientation of directional cables.