Directional speaker cables - switching direction


Some time ago I started a thread regarding speaker wire directionality and my inability to understand how it could have any affect on sound quality. The question was inspired by the fact that, after quite a few years using them with my Martin Logan Odysseys, I discovered that the cables (Straightwire Octave 2) had arrows printed on them. Not surprisingly the opinions expressed were pretty strong on both sides of the argument but those supporting directionality were the most vociferous and in greater numbers, one to the point of being downright insulting. In no case, though, was an explanation given by those supporting the importance of cable direction for how this phenomenon occurs except that it should be obvious that when a cable is broken in in one direction only someone with an uneducated ear would be unable to discern the difference.

Even though I still don't get it I'm not taking the position that there is no validity to the directional claim; if there truly is I just don't understand how. This leads me to my two part question. I haven't been using the Octaves for a few years but now, because of cable length issues, I want to put them back in my system partly to avoid the cost of new quality cables.

IF, then, the directionality theory IS valid and I don't recall which way the arrows originally pointed or which direction they were "broken in" do those in support of directionality think I should install them with the arrows pointing toward the speakers
128x128broadstone
So if energy flows in one direction, which direction does it flow?
+ to - or - to + ?
Awsome Jea48, very well done indeed, that was one of the best post of revelance that I have seen in a long time, are you a electrical engineer?
So if energy flows in one direction, which direction
does it flow?
+ to - or - to + ?

From source to load independently of polarity.
.....,are you a electrical engineer?
12-17-14: Audiolabyrinth

No, but I did stay at a Radisson Inn once.

I must have lead a sheltered life until 5-17-10 when I read a response by Herman to a thread here on Agon. My first thought was, what planet is this guy from?

The Thread.
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?fcabl&1274104190&openusid&zz

I believe Kijanki has a degree in electrical engineering or physics, or both.

Al, Almarg, is also an electrical engineer.

Herman used to teach the theory.
.
Jim
Jea48, thanks for the link to the 2010 thread. That was a wonderful trip down memory lane.

It's a shame we don't see discussions of that caliber here anymore.