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In Reply to: RE: Cable advice for new system posted by passive chappy on May 25, 2015 at 12:36:35
All opinions are valid, but there is good advice and bad advice. This is 16 ga wire with gimmicky insulation, a ribbon configuration which I have never heard sound good. No info on copper type or insulation. They seem unusually focused on cosmetics, always a very bad sign.IC's look to sound even worse.
Sorry, but I would avoid even if it were free.
They do manage to exploit one audiofool buzz word: directionality. This is a contentious topic and an impressive marketing tool. Here is my opinion, formed after more than a few years of buying, building, listening to various cables. Everyone has their own ideas, and they're all valid, but I have proven this to myself more than once.
Unless there is a difference in connectors or construction between ends of a cable, the wire itself is not directional until a signal (current) has passed through it for some time. That amount of time varies with the amount of current (signal strength) and the wire itself. You will know it when you hear it. There is no rule, and there is no measurement, and there is no way to determine "directionality" in advance. Symbols printed on a wire are only symbols printed on a wire. It is merely secret code for "buy me."
After that period of orientation, the wire is somehow biased to sound better in that direction until it is reversed. Then it will not sound as good until after the same amount of time has passed with signal flowing in the opposite direction to "rebias" it. Immediate comparison will yield a false positive for directionality and a happy audiophile confident he bought quality wire. If a tester waits until that rebiasing time passes, there will be no difference.
You can make any wire and most cables "directional" by putting a marker on either end and always attaching it with the same orientation. There is nothing more to it, unless the cable has special construction or connectors.
I can almost hear people's head exploding.
Peace,
Tom E
Edits: 05/25/15 05/25/15Follow Ups:
I assume your comments relate to the DNM cables...which you've not auditioned? That makes no sense to me. DNM cables have been around a long time (they were pioneers in manufacturing solid core audio cables) and have garnered universally positive reviews. Most critics finding that they offer great value.
The op asked for cable suggestions for his system and IMO the DNM cables are a "no brainer".
Actually I own DNM cables so I'm very familiar with their sound. I was just giving the OP a suggestion of what I thought could work in his system. And try to save a bunch of money in the process.
I agree they are no-brainers. I also think they are a good starting point to work up from if the OP so chooses. They might end up good enough for a long time.
I think when these cable threads come up folks would hopefully suggest choices that are high value and that take a lot of effort and money to replace. Many brands can fill this role. The more suggestions the merrier.
Sorry if I was too harsh in my initial assessment. It's true I have not heard them. I'm glad these sound good in your system. Nice of you to contribute to the discussion.
They may be your personal favorite and have been favorably reviewed, but I stand by my evaluation of the construction. The speaker cable, since it's only 16ga, could be suitable for entry level if it's really inexpensive. The IC's could possibly be reconfigured into a twisted pair by separating the two conductors and simply twisting them together. But why bother? There are far too many superior alternatives, including buying OCC solid core wire (better) with Teflon insulation (better) and DIY for less money.
My understanding is that it is a high impedance/ low capacitance speaker cable that is designed to work with DNM amps which lack a Zobel.
Dave
I wouldn't about your response. You're making some valid points and I should be open minded enough about that and all other opinions.
My suggestions is just based on my experiences. And I'm glad that guys like you can offer ideas that I can think about too.
It's all good.
I've heard a lot of wire over the years and have found that DNM sounds excellent. Is it the best stuff out there. Nope. Is it a good starting point vs dropping a bit of dough on something that you end up not liking, and then rinse and repeat until you find something that you think you might like better but blew a lot of money in the process? It's something to consider. I wish I had heard this stuff before I wasted all of the money I did.
Your post was a reasonable, non-bellicose, personal opinion. I don't know what the fuss is about.
There's no fuss really. I'm finding this an interesting discussion. I've always found your contributions enlightening and thought provoking and I'm just trying to strive forward in doing the same thing in some small way.
Thanks again.
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