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Building first 2 channel system, need cable advice

Hi, I am in the process of building my first 2 channel system which will be used pretty much exclusively for music (possibly will hook it up to my tv at some point).

The system consists of:
-Anthony Gallo Ref 3.1 Speakers
-Bel Canto Ref 1000 Mono Block Amps
-Slim Devices Transporter [to be used as the transport, DAC, and pre-amp] (which I eventually intend to get modified by modwright)
-Anthony Gallo Ref SA Bass Amp (for the 2nd voice coil of the 3.1s)

All my music will be coming off a server which is why I am using the transporter.

What types of cables do I need to hook all this up and then what brands etc should I look at? Cable prices vary ridiculously depending on the brand and I am wondering if it is really worth it?

In terms of types I was thinking Balanced XLR from Transporter -> Bel Canto. Then what do I need for Bel Canto -> Speakers? And what do I need for the Bass Amp? Where does the bass amp input come from and what type of cables do I need and then what do I need for bass amp -> speakers (im assuming same as bel canto -> speakers).

Then in terms of brands what should I look at? I have heard that Zu Audio Cables are really good but they are also very expensive. Is there any need to spend this much?

Thanks
danyal711
hford653's avatar
hford653
14 posts
 
I would definitely look at Omega Micro inter connects and speaker cables. I recently switched from MIT Shot Gun S-1 to Omega Micro Planer line and what an amazing difference in the performance of my system. Mapleshades which is a less expensive line also has some unique sound charateristics that you might really enjoy given the high performance capabilities of your speakers. I have found that smaller wires with little or no jacket or insulation around them really can produce some outstanding results. Good luck with your search. Herman
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Use signal cables also inexpensive and no silliness. If you want to try a different type of conductor try vampire wire OCC long crystal copper in a Zip cord . The other to consider is silver. Silver has a particular sound to it. The sound is frequently desribed as quick but can be harsh with treble. The Silver Signal cable or better is the Homegrown silver cables are the no nonsense cables. Home grown's best is called silver lace cable, it moves you out of cheap category but they have less expensive all silver conductor styles.
Keep in mind that most cables are built with commercial wire from Belden and Mogami if you avoid Chinese wire.
A few are still making their own like Van den Huls or are special OEM .
Yes cables sound different, but don't get stuck on them avoid a long sales schtick. Cables represent the highest percentage of B.S. that gets pawned off to audiophiles. The costs can be absurdly high to the point where it is obscene and in my vioew a very real sin. If you can throw 10,000 at an interconnect please think of a worthy charity and give them 9,000. The remainder will still net a sense of investing in an IC will provide esteem and is still mostly snake oil anyway.
danyal711 OP
22 posts
 
Yah I have heard that expensive cables arn't really worth it. So theoretically silver cables are supposed to sound harsher on the high end? I will probably steer clear of that then. Signal cables look good esp for the price. Any experiences with those?

It still amazes me that companies that produce really high end speakers charge tons for their cables and claim they are better (Zu Audio for example). That is what I really don't understand.
iggyminn
9 posts
 
I'm sure you've heard this, but it all depends on your ears and budget. If possible borrow from a friend, try The Cable Company's lending program, or try one of the vendors who offers a money back guarantee. I've also purchased a couple used cables on this site based on reviews here and in the various mag's. I've bought a couple that didn't gel with my system, so I turned around and resold them with virtually no loss.

In my experience, I've found noticeable resolution, improvemed clarity, and tighter bass by upgrading cables. My previous cables were lower level MIT cables. I moved to Audioquest Diamondback's and a Kimber Hero in my system (McIntosh MC2105, A/R LS-7 pre & Dynaudio 52SE's). For my level of system, I feel that they match up pretty well. For the heckuva it, I borrowed a buddy's A/Z Matrix Ref's. While it was a great cable on his system, the limitations of my system held it back. For what it's worth, I try to stick to cables that do not exceed 10-15% percent of the equipment's original cost
danyal711 OP
22 posts
 
Thanks for the info. I think I am going to try Signal Audio Cables. I have heard good things from a couple people and the price isnt too bad either.

Does anyone know what cables I need to hook up the SA bass amp? Im a bit confused. If I hook the transporter to my amps via XLR cables, do you think I could also hook up the non balanced output connectors on the transporter and hook that up to the bass amp?
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