$20 XLR cables that sound good

Shadorne and Clio 09,

I have a Krell FPB-600c amp, an Ayre K-1xe preamp, and an Ayre Cx-7e CDP - all differentially balanced. I don't think anyone (who is rational) would question the quality of the design, components, and assembly of these products (or their power supplies). I can tell a HUGE difference between different XLR interconnects on this system.

I do agree that inexpensive XLR cables all sound about the same - good (or adequate as Clio09 says), but leave a lot of sound quality on the table compared to the best. Admittedly, the best cables are very expensive and usually complex in their design and construction. There is no arguing that the inexpensive cables are a much better value.

I can tell a HUGE difference between different XLR interconnects on this system.

I don't question your observations but this would drive me nuts...how do you know that you have solved the problem? How do you know for sure that $100 or $1000 or $10,000 is enough to spend on IC's. I mean if a different wire makes a HUGE difference then how do you determine that you are getting the best out of your system...I mean there are literally hundreds if not thousands of IC's you might try?

Good point Shadorne. I am sure that I have not found (and cannot afford) the best cables, but the good part is that every cable upgrade (in lieu of upgrading componentry) brings a solid improvement in the sound of my system and a smile to my face. That is what the hi-end is all about for me...

Everything's riding through IC's. I'd begin by selecting well-built, well-insulated "middle-end" IC's from a reputable audio company. Your ears will reveal if it's a musical system match, really capturing the system's synergy.

You may also order two or three different IC types and return your least favorite(s). I'd first try connecting the L/R main channels through different IC's and play your best-known test sources. The best system match may jump right out or be less dramatic but definately better.

I practice basic connections care that also definately helps. That includes cleaning all interconnects, keeping connections snug, using short cable lengths, pugging and unplugging carefully, and running audio cables separated from any power cords.

Audio arguments/discussions are always interesting. Somewhere in Stereophile, this month, I'll have to look for the exact article. But the comment in the article was that an Audiophile type person owns speaker Mark II, and is very happy with it, noticing no deficiencies. The the Manufacturer comes out with the Mark III correcting a list of supposed deficiencies in Mark II. The Mark II owner now suddenly and forever hears these issues until he makes a change. So much is subjective AND suggestive, that I am not sure where some comments I read even come from. But it is a hobby to enjoy and to each his own.