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What's First, Interconnects or Speaker?

I have mediocre cables currently and will purchase used cables soon, like Acustic Zen Abslute, Nordost Valhalla, or Synergistic Research Precicison. My budget will allow me to buy in stages. Starting with the best performance first, where should I start my purchase in these stages? I figure six plus months between purchases. I have 2 analogued bi-amped amps, 1 Tube pre-amp, plus redbook cd and one turntable. All advise is welcome. To see the Brands, please refer to my other question under the same name, "which cables to purchase".
Thanks, Sargentfriday
sargentfriday
sargentfriday OP
7 posts
 
Thanks everyone. The chicken/egg first analogy is so true. Anything High Tec can drive me crazy-but its so rewarding in the end. Interconnects seem to be the consensus for first. I should mention that I built a PC with the I7 chip to run music thru an Ayre QB-9 into the system. That and the CD are the primary sources, but I'd love to connect the XM from the Direct TV DVR. Thanks again guys-keep the input coming please!
inna
7,865 posts
 
Yes, the source first approach is usually the best way. It certainly worked for me. But you could experiment and do it differently. Even better - wait and upgrade all at once.
loomisjohnson
1,974 posts
 
Almarg:
Per your reference, longer lengths are specified for spdif (coax) cables. Does the same hold forth for optical (toslink) cables?
almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Longer lengths are specified for spdif (coax) cables. Does the same hold forth for optical (toslink) cables?
No. The principles which make a 1.5+ meter length optimal for spdif coax cables are not applicable to optical cables.

Which is not to say that length won't make a difference with optical cables, but I have no particular knowledge of the factors that would be involved.

Best regards,
-- Al
unsound
7,343 posts
 
Al, another great post!
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