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Audible differences between speaker cables?

I'm a newbie to speaker cable issues. My analytical side says that there shouldn't be much difference from one type or brand of cable to another (given that they are low enough resistance to provide a high damping factor). Nevertheless, there are some strong opinions to the contrary. What audible differences are there from one type of cable to another?
jlambrick
bwyoung
143 posts
 
The better your equipment, the more differences you hear.
aida_w
308 posts
 
I agree with Bwyoung! I agree big time!
Cheers
clueless
763 posts
 
As a skeptic I must admit that this Christmas proved to be a true revelation (in audio-not religion). I recently purchased a new 187 inch screen for my HT and was forced to put the tree and accompanying decor on the other side of the living room. Well, the old extension cord didn't reach and I patched a few feet of Acoustic Zen Hologram I had laying around to the extension cord to get it to the tree.

WOW!!!

The greens have never been so..well... green. And the reds are much warmer. Rudolph's nose never looked so bright! And the star on the top of the tree... I tell you that Hologram talk is true! I've never been able to hear a real difference in cables but know I know the truth. I'm deaf!!!!

Anyway, given my disability, I'm selling my system and downsizing to a boombox. Call me if you are interested... and does anybody have any experience patching Yamamura Quantum power cords to those things?

Sincerely, I remain
detlof
1,899 posts
 
Clueless, just goes to show, you have to believe. Now that you say it, I'm convinced. Clueless before, now enlightened.
j_k
234 posts
 
If you want something to compare some sonic differences, Vampire wire CSS and Nordost SPM Reference are at the opposite end of the cable sound spectrum. Yes, cable will make a difference in the sound, the better the system, the more dramatic..... The more $$$$ does not always ensure a good cable or a synergistic match to your system. I am an EET and there are differences in network impedance of the cable that explain frequency response changes. I have physically seen it on an impedance analyzer under laboratory conditions. There are also differences due to the metal type, grain structure and quality that will make differences in sound. One clue -- my wallet was a lot better off before I got into cable swapping, and at the price point I got off the wagon I think there was still trade-offs in the wire for the sonic preferences of different types of music.
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