Componets first, cables second?

Well I'll chime in on the side of balance, throwing myself to the wolves. While I agree that yes it's best to go with the source first, that is assuming that you DO NOT neglect the cables. Some will max out their funds on the source and never get around to taking care of cables. I have heard $7K cd players with $3K power cords run rings around $10K-$20K players and seperates with lesser cords. Don't laugh, I know some whose power cords cost more than their source, and swear by it.

So I would say to come up with a budget, the maximum amount that you think you will spend, and make sure not to ignore the cables. I won't go so far as to name a percentage, because synergy is too important. However, due to synergy, it is best to choose components first, as the cables that best suit them can be altered by your component choice.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that if you don't balance the system, and the system includes cables, you will be limiting yourself one way or the other.

Cheers,
John

Peter, there is no one right answer here. Shardone, no, you are not wrong, as this is not a right or wrong, black or white area. Things audio are never that simple.

Peter, I would just go out and buy the best component you like now, that is the priority. Worry about the cables later. Cables are more for fine tuning in a system's synergy. Certainly a fine tuned system will sound better than a collection of expensive gear. However, that takes time. You need to start with the components, then find cables that make them sing together. You cannot choose the cables first and then try to find components that mesh with them. My only comment is to not spend so much on components that you never address the cables. A well balanced system is just that, well balanced. You may find a great cable for little $$$, you may also find a great component for little $$$.

There are no magic solutions, no shortcuts. No one here can tell you what components or cables that you will like. No one can tell you how much you should spend on any one item. It's trial and error. You just have to do some of the experiments yourself, using your room and your ears. Sorry.....that's just the way it is.

Remember, the journey IS the adventure.

Enjoy!

John

See what you did Peter? Your thread has disintigrated into a subjectivist vs. objectivist pissing contest.

What a shame, as these issues are never resolved, and never will be. Those that believe they hear differences will hear differences, those who believe they cannot hear differences, will not hear differences. Pointless really, a waste of time and space. Might as well start another thread now....how about digital vs. analog, or tubes vs. SS. Lord knows those two subjects haven't been beaten into the ground yet. 8^0

Cheers,
John