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Goertz Bi-wire or something else

I currently have a long run of Goertz MI-2 cables (20+ feet). I recently moved my system, which requires a much shorter length. I was thinking of sending the cables back to AlphaCore to be cut into shorter lengths and biwiring the MI-2's as a double run. Plus I'd have enough cable left over to terminate and sell a pair.

Should I expect much sonic improvement. This seemed like the most cost effective way to go. Alternatively I could get a new cable and sell the MI-2's in their original length. My dealer recommended the PNF Symphony Biwires.

Any suggestions?
hchilcoat

Showing 2 responses by sdcampbell

sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
It's hard to say if you hear an audible improvement with shorter cables. The Goertz cables are pretty neutral in character, and while they have very low resistance, they are relatively high in capacitance which comes more into play with long runs (such as your 20' lengths).

Bi-wiring often improves the sound of speakers. Lowering the capacitance of your cables by shortening them probably won't be audible to you, but it will probably present an easier load for your amplifier.

If you send the cables back to Alpha-Core to be cut and reterminated, invest in their silver spades lugs. They're worth the extra money if your amp accepts spades.

Based on my own listening experiences, my opinion is that you will have to spend substantially more money than the cost of the Goertz cables to do better (probably 3x or more). The Goertz cables offer excellent value for the money, and are fine products in absolute terms.
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
Hi, Bigtee:

Yes, I've still got my Vandy 3A Sig's, which are bi-wired with Alpha-Core Goertz MI-2 cables and driven by a Bryston 4B-ST amp. The MI-2 cables are terminated with 5/16" silver spades at the amp end, and the standard 1/4" silver spades at the speaker end. (The Bryston amp's binding posts require the larger spade.) I strongly advise anyone that is buying Goertz cables directly from Alpha-Core to spend the extra few dollars for the silver spades -- they are (as Sean notes above) much superior to their other connectors.

Based on several threads that Sean posted last year, I made a pair of Zobel networks from parts ordered from Parts Express. I'm not sure that the Bryston amp is one that has a problem interfacing with the Goertz cables, but installing the Zobel network seemed like a good precaution. If you are interested in the values for the capacitor and resistor for the Zobel network, I'll be glad to send the info to you.

Best regards,

Scott C-
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