Changing audio beliefs

I started believing in cables after experimenting with I2S cables literally a year ago. I tried $5, $30, and $300 I2S cables and was convinced that they do make a difference—sometimes a big difference. Over time, I also upgraded analog cables and other digital cables as well. So far, the only cable where I have not been able to detect any difference is the power cord.

The other almost an exception is the USB cable.  Except the Cardas Clear USB (too warm leading to soft bass), I could not detect any meaningful difference between the stock USB (from IFi, Schiit etc), $10 Benchmark usb and $300 DH Labs Mirage usb cable.  Beyond that price point, I am not willing to try even I could afford.

@thecarpathian 

Music has always been hugely important to me. My parents were both ardent Classical fans and instilled a deep love for music and all the arts into me and my siblings. 

If music is not a priority in one's life, I'm genuinely mystified as to why anyone would become involved in this hobby. 

@stuartk     +1

I have always loved music. A lot. When younger, I just listened to what came out of the car stereo, speakers or whatever we had and we’re playing it on. It was awesome. Then I started down the path of looking for improved sound, and started listening to the equipment more than the songs.  I would focus on the specific sound of a guitar, or a high hat, or any instrument/vocalist along with its placement. Honestly, for me that got kind of boring and now I am back to just listening to the songs and really, really loving the music again.

I love music and it's been important to me since I was a teenager (I'm 75 now); I was even in the music business for 10 years and have gone to many hundreds of concerts. That being said, I do not have it constantly playing and when I'm not actively having a listening session (a few hours per day a few days per week), I like silence.