Cable

Many cable effects are dependent on interactions between the characteristics of the cable and various technical characteristics of the particular components they are connecting, some of which are unspecified and unpredictable.

Also, I would not assume that the "best" cable is necessarily the one that is most expensive, if that is what you are thinking.

Therefore there is no "one size fits all" answer, and the only way to tell with any certainty is to try it both ways.

IMO.

Regards,
-- Al

"Source 2 Pre, upstream sets the tone for the downstream"

Start with source, and then upgrade ICs when you've found the cable with the synergy you like. And I'm not saying high price = best sound.

Thanks to all. I'll probably try some type of Nordhost IC's since I have their speaker wires and power cords.

Have you spoken to Nordhost to get suggestions or their thoughts as to where the ICs you want should be placed in the signal chain? I'm always curious to know what the manufacturer's think.