2. pc-audio
  3. 1310504946

RE: Ethernet Cable /Patch Cable ...Any Difference?

I’m fairly certain that this topic has been brought up previously. I did peruse the Cables section to no avail. I think this is a more fitting topic however, for the PC Audio section.

I have been reading via other forums recently about the claims that certain CAT6 cable actually “sounds” better than some CAT5 cables. I have to admit that I am a bit skeptical. I am, however, open to try upgrading to different patch cables.

Can anyone weigh in here on whether or not there is any validity to the positive gains reported by others regarding various types of patch cables…

Note (for those of you how read all the way to the end of this post): Answers such as, “here we go again,” “now you’ve opened a can of worms,” this subject has been beaten to death,” “It’s all subjective,” etc. serve no purpose to my post. If you don’t have a direct educated answer, please don’t reply. That way we can make this a short, simple and civil thread.

Thanks.

_Ben
2chnlben
tubeking
65 posts
 
Cat 6 has a one guage larger copper conductors than Cat 5. The plugs are also usually more robust. The 4 twisted pairs are seperated by a round or x shaped spacer(for x-talk)to keep the pairs spaced differently than Cat 5. The external sheath is usually more robust also. Think of a Cat 5 built to higher standards. Why Cat 6? It has a faster speed for data. Does this make a difference in Audio? I don't know, but the patch cords are not very expensive and they look nicer and stronger so why not.
trebejo
102 posts
 
====
Can anyone weigh in here on whether or not there is any validity to the positive gains reported by others regarding various types of patch cables…
====

There is none.
2chnlben OP
595 posts
 
Thanks for the straight answers guys. With a "wire" question you open yourself up to all kinds of ridicule...
levy03
442 posts
 
Ben: we're both wondering the same thing here. that same thread @ PSA's site got me thinking as well. just ordered two new patch cables late last night to see for myself. went with the Belden 10GX CAT6 patch cables. very good/top of the line cable from what (little =)) i understand. amazon had them pretty cheap ($17 each for 7 feet) so i figured why not give them a go. am a bit skeptical myself but the cost of admission is low enough to give them a try. cheapest tweak i've every attempted and feel like there's very little to lose here...like $40. looking forward to seeing/hearing what happens. should have them tomorrow. will try to report back once i have a chance to compare.

cheers
Lev
2chnlben OP
595 posts
 
Lev,

I'll be anxious to hear what your findings are. I'm guessing that it's probably too much to hope for that they will improve sound quality. I suppose there could be other benefits (e.g.: improve streaming; i.e.: less drops...).

Of course there is the one poster who says the audible improvements are "extremely easy" to hear. Perhaps he has a line on authentic Thai Sticks (or maybe he’s just one of those golden-eared gods)!!

Keep us posted.

Cheers!

_Ben
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