2. cables
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What process do you use to purchase cables?

I’m in the process of updating my gear and thinking about what to do for updated cables. Every time I think about it, my head spins as there are so many different cable options & companies. I struggle to even start the process.

I don’t care if it’s speaker cables, interconnects or power cords – Just explain what you typically do to nail down your purchase.

FYI – my past “process” was to simply purchase whatever I found to be the most affordable options recommended by folks on this board. For that reason, I’m currently using Canare 4S11 speaker cables, Mogami Gold interconnects, and Pangea power cords.

Since I’m planning to push my component updates to significantly higher quality gear, I don’t want to fall short on the cable side. If you have a process, let’s hear it! Thanks


dfairc777a
soix
8,661 posts
 
As with any audio component, I start by identifying what sound characteristics I’m looking for and read reviews and owner’s accounts of products that have those characteristics.  For cables in particular it’s relatively easy to buy them used, try them out, and if they don’t work out resell them for little or no loss if you buy smartly.  There are also several very good direct sellers with generous trial periods that’s another great way to go.  But regardless, it all starts with identifying what sound characteristics you’re looking for and going from there.  Hope this helps, and best of luck in your search. 
sns
3,003 posts
 
Many suggestions above good. I used the lending library at the Cable Company years ago when first attempting to ascertain impact of all cables in system. You could buy and sell,  but lending library least hassle and likely least expenditure.
kb54
103 posts
 
I'm surprised that no one has suggested dealer recommendations and loaners.  Many years ago, John Rutan at Audio Connections let me borrow some Kimber interconnects to try at home. I hope that this practice still exists!
streamerdude
54 posts
 
I use a dartboard.
dfairc777a OP
60 posts
 
Thanks Guys, this is a tough one.  Sure I can (and do) read a bunch. The problem is that everyone has their favorites and without first hand hearing experience you don't know if their ears, gear & room fit my ears, gear, and room.  

I'm most surprised by MC's statement about reading as being a better method than listening.  I've read an awful lot of his posts and that seems to go against his usual advice - that being to use your ears. 

I'll probably try the listening tests either through borrowing from my dealer (Probably won't work as they are pretty snobbish) or trying from the cable company. 

I'm still struggling with where to start.  I haven't set a budget in stone, but I'm unlikely to spend more than 1K on speaker cables.  Unfortunately that still leaves a ton of cables to evaluate.  

As for sound characteristics - that one is again difficult as I've not finalized my amp purchase.  It will probably be one of the Pass Labs class A amps, but I'm also looking at Boulder and Constellation (Which I'd prefer to Pass, but $$ is an issue and these things aren't easy to find on the used market).

Dart board isn't a bad idea either... Just put 20 or 30 choices on the board and throw the dart as to which one you try.  It could work?
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