Looking for additional cable ideas...

Hi, Mike:

I recently auditioned both the Goertz MI2 (copper) and the Goertz Python (in bi-wire sets), and had a definite preference for the MI2 over the Python. I bought the bi-wire copper MI2 (Veracity) for my main speakers, and the MI1 for the center channel speaker.

Before you make a final decision about which brand/model of cable to buy, try to audition a set of MI2's (copper). If your amp and speakers will accept spade lugs, I recommend you get the cable terminated at the factory with Alpha-Core's silver spades (note: there are two widths of spades). (You can buy a set of MI2's from Alpha-Core and return them before their trial period expires.)

I also installed several pairs of Goertz TQ2 interconnects at critical points in my system (such as preamp to power amp), and am EXTREMELY pleased with the improvement in the overall sound. For their price, the TQ2's offer excellent performance, and I recommend them to anyone looking for a high quality interconnect for less than $200 for a 1-meter pair.

For the record, i found your comments right on the money regarding the "lean" sound of Nordost. I also agree that it is very focused sounding from about 6-800 Hz and up. It is that inherit lack of "warmth" or "body" that kills it in my book. Then again, if one has "tubes in full bloom" or speakers with slighly elevated mid-bass, you might not notice this as it would tend to act in a complimentary fashion.

As to the Goertz, I second Scott's thoughts on the MI-2's. I would take the "less conventional" appearance and improved sonics of their flat cables over the "more conventional" appearance of the Pythons any day of the week. The increased involvement of the dielectric on the Python's is responsible for the high end "sibilance" and slight bass bloat that you might hear with the "round" cables. This is also true of their "flat" vs "micro-purled" interconnects going by my recent experience. The Python's and Micro-Purl's are more suited to HT work as they tend to sound a little more "exciting" or "hyped up" at the extremes. The original "flat" series works better for music reproduction as it sounds so "creamy" and "seamless" : )

The fact that the newer Goertz MI and AG speaker cables make use of Teflon should make them even better than the versions that Scott and i are talking about. In order to obtain the Teflon versions though, you would probably have to contact Goertz directly. I'm sure that most of their dealers have "old stock" at this point in time as their use of Teflon is pretty much brand new. This might not be a big deal though as Goertz would be glad to give you an in-home trial period just to check things out. Keep in mind my "standard disclaimer" when it comes to Goertz flat speaker cables though: their high capacitance has the potential to create problems with specific amplifiers. At least check into the use of the factory supplied Zobel's that they offer for this purpose.

Whatever route you decide to go, please keep us posted. It seems as if you're tastes and observations are very much in-line with mine. Like you, i'm looking for the best of both worlds i.e. detail and musicality : ) Sean
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I agree with your accessment of the Nordost as well (I have Blue Heaven) and I have been considering the Goertz MI2 for myself.

Have you tried the LAT International cables? My friend and I have compared the LAT and Nordost cables on his system and mine and had the same results with both systems. The Nordost was a little more extended and had a little more bass (a little bump in the mid bass) but was thinner in the mids. The LAT was a little smoother and warmer and not quite as detailed or robust. We really are splitting hairs here but I think the LAT would be a better fit for most stereos.

I am considering the Goertz cables, can anyone tell me how they compare with the LAT? I just have not heard much about them and wonder if the Goertz are better still.

I used to go the biwire route but I am convinced that single wire cables are better with jumpers. I have gotten the best results with Silversmith and Pure Note brand cables.

Thanks to all for the input so far. It appears I am guilty.
I assumed (I know,I know ) since the Cable Co. and Goertz' own web site said the MI2 and the Python MI2 were sonic equivalents, that there was no need for me to hear the flat MI2. Now I will definitely try them. Scott, can you quantify the characteristics you preferred in the flat design? Sean, VERY interesting observation about the bass bloat. I had noticed a SLIGHTLY overripe bass, but I attributed that to the Spendor/Cary combo, based in part on discussion with Bob Neill. I did the best I could by moving the speakers further into the room, but I am curious now what the flat Goertz may do in this area. I will certainly contact the company directly regarding two other areas. Their web site says that the capacitance problem is only of concern in very few systems, with SS amps utilizing negative feedback and unstable design, coupled to speakers with high impedance at high frequencies. Since I have a zero feedback tube amp, and since I don't believe the Spendors impedance goes too high, I wasn't anticipating a problem, but better safe than sorry. Also, I would like to know if you can readily tell the Teflon version from the original. Sonic brings up a good point, have either of you tried the Goertz in single runs (maybe MI3) with their jumpers?

Mike