Cables for a fledgling system

I think you need to budget more money. If you have 300-450 to spend get a good interconnects first from your cd to pre, then pre to amps. I would recomend some used Audio- quest like some Python or viper. If you want more forward character then Nordost blue Heaven. New interconnect like Creative Concepts 3.0 would be nice and in budget.

I am a true believer in cable/interconnects that are just above what comes with your components.

Acoustic Zen is a great source of cables that, even new, are affordable. Used, I consider this shop pure nirvana. Once you have begun to upgrade cables, even from monster cables, you will be pleased with your decision..

Here are some sources that are worth the effort.

www.audiopartsinc.com Never underestimate Stu Wein's products. Bang-for-buck, this man rules!

For the best value in used cables, try the classified Audiogon ads. You are already where you need to be.

that being said, www.fatwyre.com has a great inventory of used cables and you are dealing with a very reliable, up-front company.

For the best web page on cables, try www.A2Zcables.com. good service, great reliability, marvelous variety of offerings. Prompt service. Inexpensive, but certainly not the cheapest.

finally, some of the Audiogon auctions, especially with Z-squared, are just fine.

I'd put the $ into used I/Cs first. As others have mentioned, Acoustic Zen products are excellent and you should be able to get a pair of used AZ Matrix Ref MK1 for about $200 or so. Also try LAT Synchestra, not as big a name or as widely available, but very good band for $. I would go the AC cords last and think Syn Res Master Couplers can probably be had for about $125/each.