Higher End USB Cables


Anyone tried/compared the newer high-end USB Cables (i.e. Locus Design Polestar or Ridgestreet model)? Curious if they're worth the $300+ price tag, particularly since Locus doesn't offer demo or return policy (can't speak to Ridgestreet). I do know there's differences in the cheap throw-away ones, much like different USB ports on the same computer.
mb9061

Showing 1 response by sc53

I only have limited experience with USB cables for computer audio but here it is: I first tried an Audioquest Cinnamon USB cable but was surprised and alarmed at all the drop-outs I was getting connecting my MacBook Pro to my Northstar USB 32 DAC, using Pure Music as the player. I ended up returning the Cinnamon to Audio Advisor and just using a generic computer USB cable which at least stayed plugged in sufficiently to not cause sound drop-outs. Recently, when I bought my BAT monoblocks and preamp from Perotta Consulting, he suggested trying a Wireworld USB cable, the Silver Starlight. I was wary of using a silver cable since I do NOT like bright etchy sound. However, the Silver Starlight allayed my fears. It is of very high quality construction, seals tightly to both DAC and computer, and I have not experienced one drop-out. Also, the sound is superb. It was definitely a step up from the generic computer USB cable. Whether you need to go as far as Wireworld I don't know, but I am glad I did. It is a perfect match for the Northstar DAC and my MacBook Pro.