How do you compare components?

Hi , I see you have two similar threads going on. First off kudos for risking being flamed for asking about cables. So based on my experience at Mid Fi, cables do make a difference, sometimes huge, occasionally not. I’m not going to dissect all the minutiae as I’m not that smart or experienced. But my thought regarding USB at MidFi level , I went up the chain from $3.00 cable to an entry Audio Quest , to Cardas Clear , to Wire World Starlight Platinum 8. I experienced an improvement each time , with the Wire Word giving more on the upper end over the Cardas. But with my current gear that’s my budget max. I haven’t tried HDMI for audio so I can’t comment, but I would certainly try a couple in your position. As far a break in/ burn in , it would seem to a pea brain like myself that there should be a noticeable improvement immediately that would give you some indication that you could decide. For an example I have Morrow level 6 interconnects as I like their sound, but they literally take 400 hrs to break in. So within the allotted time to return I was able to absolutely make a decision. FWIW I dig your speakers and since it’s been 40 plus years , I can only remember liking them. I hope you post your HDMI findings as I’m breaking out my Oppo 105 and will probably get a Dbob to go with it. Merry Christmas, Mike B. 

How do I do a stereo hifi A/B listening comparison?

https://youtu.be/Dv0iJb2cxK0

@buellrider97  Thanks. I am also a firm believer that even in mid-fi cables can be heard. And the speakers (ESS AMT 10B) are 40 years old (upgraded the Xovers, tweeter diaphragms, and refoamed woofers) and are honestly the best Ive ever owned. And I’ve owned a lot of speakers.

I don’t think using your monitor to break in will help. I would think different wires would be used for audio and video.

FYI, here is a way to classify I2S / HDMI cables by cost.