2. cables
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Budget USB cable?

It pains me to have to try and find a "good sounding USB cable". The whole thought that USB cables can sound different just sticks in my craw. Oh, I know for sure that other cables make a difference (even coax digital and Toslink), but for some reason the whole USB thing makes me crabby.

Onward to the discussion. It seems the Audioquest Carbon is a well reviewed and regarded USB cable. If I try to stick to the $100 max price point, are there any others that can give the Carbon a run for its money? The use would be between my TT3.0'd and EDO'd Touch and my PWD DAC II. Looking for all the usual virtues - no "sound" of its own, neutral, extended and articulate in both directions without being dry or brittle, a natural acoustic sound without being warm or soft. You know, perfect. :-)
tonyptony
audiokitty
3 posts
 
I go with Wireworld Starlight (it is in my music server)and Furutech gt2 (In my headphone amp).
However, i'm using the Orpheus USB on my main system, which is the best i have tried. and go really well with their DAC. The only down size is price ....
extravaganza
373 posts
 
But furutech formula 2 has somewhat strange effect on vocals ,it sounds as though singers has a cold or somenthing stuck in their noses,but at the same time delivers extented bass and open highs.I just wondering if somebody selling making and usb plugs ?
tonyptony OP
617 posts
 
Thanks all. I was lucky to get a NIB Wireworld Starlight here on the 'gon for a great price. Just got it today in the mail. Will be listening this weekend.
extravaganza
373 posts
 
Let me know your impressions:)
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing
1,600 posts
 
Here is another prop for the Belkin Pro Series USB 2.0 (A Plug to 5-Pin Mini B Plug). Just sounds clearly better when used for my Dell laptop/AQ Dragonfly based system than either the thin cable that came with my external hard drive or the shielded Gigaware brand cable I purchased at RadioShack. The Belkin cable cost $6.99 at Frys, 13 bucks less than the one from RS. Someday I will get around to trying fancier USB cables since my ears tell me there is a difference.
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