Spkr, interconects, or power cable upgrade first?


Hello all,

Originally posted this in amps form mistakingly, apologies if you have read this already.
I am just looking for some advice on upgrading my 2 ch setup.

My system so far consist of Quad 22L2 speakers, YBA Design YA201 Integrated Amplifier, and a Musiland md10 USB DAC with HTPC for source. RCA's are cheap Radio shack gold plated set. My speaker wire is also a less expensive monster cable 12 ga running bi-wired. I am also running stock power cables to AMP and DAC.

So whats first to upgrade here? I'm in collage so on a budget so looking for best sound for buck.

Clint
ascr689s
Power cables will make the most difference. I would then replace the speaker cables with solid core cables - I'm not a fan of multi-stranded wires.

Regards,
Seems like mixed opinions so far. I can only cite my experience which was: replaced speaker cables first, then interconnects and finally power cables. I too was using Monster cables for speakers. They'd developed quite a bit of oxidation over many years. Went with JPS Labs for all cables (speakers and inteconnects). Some purchased used. Built a DIY power cord for my CD player (go on-line to Parts Express for instructions). Bought a MyAudioCable (MAC) powercord for my integrated amp. Along the pricing continuum for this stuff all the above are definitely to the lower cost end but good value options - at least in my opinion. For me changing out the speaker cables made the biggest improvement.
As I agree with Ghosthouse that upgrading speaker cables first is the way to go, you have an even three-way split so far. And like Metrella I also prefer solid core speaker cables; they are the only type of cables that I hear a distinct improvement with.
Concerning PCs, they are last on my list. All of my equipment is plugged in via upgraded PCs from various makers and if they make a difference it is subtle (please don't take my Audiophile club membership card away).