Best path to test different interconnects?


Just wondering what would be the best place in your system to try different interconnects? I have 3 different sets i would like to try but none are matching, xlo , tara labs rsc 2, and some signal wires. Would i get no real change if i only swapped out the set from the pre amp to the cd player and left the same set between the preamp and the amp. Do you need 2 sets of each kind to truly listen for a difference. Hopefully what im saying is making sense. Which path would make the biggest effect in swapping. I would think from the cdp and the preamp. thanx for any info Kevin
flyin2jz
I know what you mean but do not know the 'answer'

I suggest hook them up and try to forget about them for a few weeks and the sonic signature will present itself.
would agree with CD to preamp or if your into vinyl turntable or phono pre on out. See if you can get them burned in some other way and then listen. What you get from the source or don't will be heard most clearly through the speakers. What you don't your not going to get by putting them further downstream
Kevin you may not realize the complexity of your question; here's the basics. Most listeners feel that cable swapping at the source component is a good place to start; this is probably mostly true. No the cable pairs do not necessarily need to be the same. Sometimes that yields best results, sometimes a mixture works better. Experimentation is always required. Use the same source music material repeatedly for your auditioning; something you're very familiar with & of high quality too.

Cables are such a controversial area; everyone has opinions & different experiences. They are highly dependent upon synergy with your specific componentry; a cable that sounds great in one system won't necessarily be so in a different rig. Guarantee they won't sound the same.

Typically they need to settle in for awhile after installation. The time required can vary considerably; a few days to several weeks or more. Signal passing through the cable full time accelerates the process. Ensure the connectors are clean before you plug in; there are lots of contact cleaners available. At least use a Q-tip & 90% isopropyl alcohol if you don't have anything else. Don't use that 70% rubbing alcohol which contains water & oils.

Sometimes you'll actually determine more about the sonic signature when you remove a cable in place of another. You'll then realize what was missing or added.

Invest some time in the forum archives to further educate yourself in that regard. There's a lot of valuable info here, but you have to be willing to seek it out. As in all things, the amount of effort you put into the process typically determines the quality of your results. Best of luck & have fun.
I would agree with the previous responses. Swap cables in and out from your digital or analog source to most readily identify the sonic characteristics of each cable. Once you believe you have a handle on the sound of each cable, place it in the system where you plan to use it long term to verify or nullify the result.

One thing... in my recent experience, cables DO have an intrinsic sonic signature. Their "flavor" is their flavor.

Cable shoot-outs are interesting and fun.

Enjoy the esperience.