Moving ic cables around in system?

First, to disclose that I manufacture and market audio cables.

Each interface, cdp to receiver, receiver to amp, presents a different signal transmission problem for a cable to solve. So it is possible for an IC to work well between cdp and preamp and not so well between preamp and amp.

For example the preamp might have a lower output impedence than the cdp (often the case). An IC with highish characteristic impedence will likely pick up more noise when used after the preamp than after the cdp. An IC with lowish characteristic impedence may work ell after the preamp but have phase anomolies if used after the cdp.

Some people will tell you that for short interconnects the issues I have raised will not be audible. With respect, I disagree with that view. Almost every difference in the design of a cable seems to be audible when it comes to transmission between audio components. Some of it fits the theory (such as transmission line theory) and our disagreements are about whether the issues will be audible, and that comes down to your own ears and judgement.

Sonia

Hey Sonia:

The more the merrier! Great to have the expert input.

So... to mark your entry into the world of A'gon commerce, what about giving us A'goners a sweet introductory deal on your Resolution Golds?

Apparent changes to the sound after moving cables around may just as likely be simply due to the improved connection made at each end by the physical action of unplugging and re-inserting a cable. This can 'clean' and improve the contact between plug and socket.

PS. I'd be replacing any cables that altered the sound just by wiggling them.

Hi Twoleftears - nice moniker - what a good idea, I just might do that.