View Poll Results: Which cable maker is the BEST?
- Voters
- 82. You may not vote on this poll
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Nordost
11 13.41% -
AudioQuest
2 2.44% -
TARA Labs
6 7.32% -
Cardas
6 7.32% -
MIT
3 3.66% -
WW
4 4.88% -
Siltech
7 8.54% -
Transparent
9 10.98% -
Shunyata
7 8.54% -
Other (leave comment)
27 32.93%
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December 1, 2014, 06:16 PM #1
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The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
After lurking around in high-end magazines, forums, articles, and other resources, these cable manufacturers seem to present “the best-of-the-best.” Which would you say makes the best quality products?
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December 1, 2014, 06:20 PM #2
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Pure build quality? Sonic? Both?
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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December 1, 2014, 06:22 PM #3
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
or company that stands behind their product?
Jock
If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.
---------
House: Naim ND555/2PS, Naim 552, Naim 500, Studer A80/Doshi V3, Magico M2s, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Lumina IC/SC, Shunyata Everest and Omega PCs.
Workshop: Naim ND555/2 PS, VAC Master Pre, VAC Sig 200iQ, Border Patrol pre/power, Avant Garde Duo Mezzo XD, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Shunyata IC/SC, Shunyata Typhon QR/Triton V3/Sigma PCs.
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December 1, 2014, 06:23 PM #4
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
The best overall, all facets taken in to consideration
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December 1, 2014, 06:27 PM #5
The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Overall? Kimber. Why? Their cables aren't stupidly priced. The Kimber Select cables are the best built cables I have ever owned. Their cables come in a flight case!
But sonically....that's a tough one. There are many great sounding cables: Ansuz, Nordost, Tara and of course, Kimber select.My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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December 1, 2014, 06:58 PM #6
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Most organic sounding I have heard (timing, natural, coherent and filling in all space naturally) is Jena Labs (higher priced models).
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December 1, 2014, 07:03 PM #7
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I would think that it depends on system matching.
For the guys that have had multiple systems and different lines of equipment over the years: do you find that you have to change out your cables too? Or does one well made and sonically true cable work for almost all systems?Le Roy
Austin, Tx : Soulution 520 preamp, 501 mono blocks, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D3.1, Lumin U1, Uptone Audio Modded Mac Mini w/ MMK fanless kit & JS-2 LPS, Regen, Ansuz DTC loom (complete), Oppo 105D, QNAP TS-451+
Chicagoland : Soulution 725 preamp, 711 stereo amp, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D5.1, Naim UnitiServe 2TB, Aurender W-20 Ansuz DTC later generation wire, Teac X1000 R2R, QNAP TS-451+
Foundation:
Raidho Rack system, Ansuz DTC Mainz8, Ansuz (2) Supreme Mainz D8 Distribution, 20 amp dedicated outlets via subpanel
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December 1, 2014, 07:06 PM #8
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Perhaps the cable that works in the widest variety of systems?
There is no one best just as there's no one best anything. Everything is a trade off or else we'd have live music in our living rooms. In the better cables, the designers have better matched all the different design parameters. (How did Phoenix Gold at one time have an amazing İÇ and speaker cable for $20?).Myles B. Astor, Senior Editor, PF, www.positive-feedback.com
Zellaton Plural Evo speakers, Doshi Audio EVO phonostage, VPI Avenger direct-drive turntable/VPI 12-inch gimbal Fatboy/vdH Colibri Master Signature/Triangle Art Apollo cartridges, SAT LM-12 tonearms/Lyra Atlas SL Lambda, VPI 12-inch gimballed Carbon Fiber arm/vdh Black Crimson and Sumiko Songbird, Mutech Hayabusa cartridges
Technics RS1506 reel-to-reel with low inductance Flux Magnetic heads, Doshi Audio EVO tapestage, AudioQuest Dragon Zero, Audience FrontRow, Ensemble PC, Skogrand, Kubala-Sosna Realization speaker cable, Ikigai Kangai speaker cable, SRA Craz 3/OHIO 2.3 platforms and Symposium ISIS/Ultra rack/platforms, Silver Circle Tchaik 6 PLC.
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December 1, 2014, 07:12 PM #9
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I voted Siltech. Not only they are beautifully built but also have something very few cable manufacturers can match: they're using their own wires (and their own metallurgy), not some generic wire made in China.
Oh yes, the sound... Well, gorgeous (at least in my system).
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December 1, 2014, 08:25 PM #10
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
My vote goes to Stereo Lab and Black Cat cables built by Chris Sommovigo. They are well made, reasonably priced for what you get and work well for me. I have bought a couple of his LectraLine Xe silver cables (one new and one used) and have two of his Dragon Warlord power cords on order (should be here sometime this week). I may also get a pair of his Silverheart speaker cables when they are offered.
Main 2ch/HT:Acoustat 2+2,Axiom EP500,Ray Lumley M-100, Bedini BA-803,Threshold T3,JRDG Consumate Phono, Lenco L75, ZYX Universe cart,Oppo BDP 95(transport), Calyx Femto DAC,Bryston BDP-2,Pioneer F-91 tuner,Studer A807 r2r,Consonance d-Linear15 power filter, DVDO Matrix 4x4,Mitsubishi HC-5 projector, Audience Au24e and LectraLine Xe cables,Cullen Power Distribution Box with upgraded cable
Bedroom 2ch/HT:Tetra 406, Forte model2pre,Forte model3amp,TeacUD503,Faroudja DV1000,PioneerCLD-97 ld player,Thorens TD-146,PioneerTX-9800,Mitsubishi HC5 projector,Tetra Artet cables
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December 1, 2014, 08:33 PM #11
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Don't know what "best" means. As Le Roy mentioned, it's all about system matching. Yes there are companies that have higher build quality, perhaps better customer service and warranty terms, etc... but in sonic terms not sure you can define "best" absent the system in which those cables are going to be used. Of the big marquee names, you have captured the most well known cable manufacturers in your poll.
Cyril
Speakers/Amp/Preamp: Thiel CS2.4 / ARC Ref 110 / ARC Ref 3
Sources: Basis 2001/Graham2.2/Nagra BPS/Benz Micro Glider SL, Dynavector 20X2-L, ARC CD7, Oppo BDP-83 SE
Cables/Power/Other: Nordost Heimdall ICs, SCs / Shunyata Hydra 8, Shunyata Python Helix PC / VPI 16.5, HRS Nimbus isolation system
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December 1, 2014, 08:55 PM #12
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I voted for Shunyata since everything of theirs I have bought has worked amazingly well. In my mind thay are one of the best for a few reasons.
1. They have a relatively simple product line, and do not try and confuse the customer with infinite variations of cables between the least expensive, and the most expensive.
2. In the world of cables, they are moderately priced while competing head to head with every cable in your list. Other vendors are stupid priced, and that nonsense is what gives cables a bad name.
3. While not the most important reason, their endorsement list is a Who's Who of audio.
4. They use engineering to explain their designs, and help the customer understand how they work. I have yet to see another vendor using or demonstrating DTCD performance (instantaneous currrent), Zitron performance (square wave out is same as square wave in), and their new CCI (component generated AC noise) filters built-in to the power cords.
5. Based on number 4, you know that if a Shunyata cable works great with product 'A' then it will work great with any other product. For example, I had over $10,000 in Shunyata power conditioner, power cords, interconnects, and speaker cables extracting every bit of detail from $6500 worth of Cambridge-Audio gear. I was amazed at what detail I got everytime I added a Shunyata product. When I upgraded to Pass Labs I did not have to buy new cables because I knew the Shunyatas would extract all the detail from Pass, just as they did with Cambridge.
Trying to tune the sound of a system by swapping cables along with gear is a fools errand.Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
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December 1, 2014, 09:06 PM #13
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Myles B. Astor, Senior Editor, PF, www.positive-feedback.com
Zellaton Plural Evo speakers, Doshi Audio EVO phonostage, VPI Avenger direct-drive turntable/VPI 12-inch gimbal Fatboy/vdH Colibri Master Signature/Triangle Art Apollo cartridges, SAT LM-12 tonearms/Lyra Atlas SL Lambda, VPI 12-inch gimballed Carbon Fiber arm/vdh Black Crimson and Sumiko Songbird, Mutech Hayabusa cartridges
Technics RS1506 reel-to-reel with low inductance Flux Magnetic heads, Doshi Audio EVO tapestage, AudioQuest Dragon Zero, Audience FrontRow, Ensemble PC, Skogrand, Kubala-Sosna Realization speaker cable, Ikigai Kangai speaker cable, SRA Craz 3/OHIO 2.3 platforms and Symposium ISIS/Ultra rack/platforms, Silver Circle Tchaik 6 PLC.
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December 1, 2014, 09:09 PM #14
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Speakeasy
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December 1, 2014, 09:14 PM #15
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.
Reviewer for Positive Feedback
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December 1, 2014, 09:29 PM #16
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
It really angers me seeing those cheap replicas on eBay and Alibaba.. Some of them are even visually indistinguishable until you cut them open. Even Furutech Flux carbon/rhodium plugs are getting counterfeited. Many cables brands are being faked from China, not just Siltech but most of the brands mentioned in the poll above. What do you get when you invest offshore in return for cheap labour and production? Industrial espionage.
Speakeasy
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December 1, 2014, 10:04 PM #17
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Agree! But if more of us would complain on eBay there would be less counterfeit cables sold there.
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December 1, 2014, 10:43 PM #18
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I love both Shunyata and Kimber Select for the reasons Bud mentioned.
But finding the right synergy with your current system is of the utmost importance.Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
REL Subs
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December 1, 2014, 10:59 PM #19
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I am surprised no one mentioned Audience cables. I have a pair of Audience Au24e that I use with my turntable and phono amp and I have noticed more midrange detail and even the bass seems to be a little tighter.
I guess it is no surprise that it is an improvement considering they replaced generic dollar store ic's. Kind of a big jump in $$ but I bought them used so the pain wasn't quite as bad.Main 2ch/HT:Acoustat 2+2,Axiom EP500,Ray Lumley M-100, Bedini BA-803,Threshold T3,JRDG Consumate Phono, Lenco L75, ZYX Universe cart,Oppo BDP 95(transport), Calyx Femto DAC,Bryston BDP-2,Pioneer F-91 tuner,Studer A807 r2r,Consonance d-Linear15 power filter, DVDO Matrix 4x4,Mitsubishi HC-5 projector, Audience Au24e and LectraLine Xe cables,Cullen Power Distribution Box with upgraded cable
Bedroom 2ch/HT:Tetra 406, Forte model2pre,Forte model3amp,TeacUD503,Faroudja DV1000,PioneerCLD-97 ld player,Thorens TD-146,PioneerTX-9800,Mitsubishi HC5 projector,Tetra Artet cables
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December 1, 2014, 11:02 PM #20
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Stealth cables have sounded best (IMHO) in several shootouts....in several systems I've put together. I'm also very impressed with newcomer Zenwave Audio cables (formerly Dave's Cables). I am thrilled with his new interconnects. He also has a 30 day try-out period for your satisfaction.
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December 1, 2014, 11:48 PM #21
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Does it make sense to distinguish between Power and Interconnects?
Power: Furutech Flux is hard to beat when in combination with their receptacles. They worked with the Dr. Ohno and Furikawa Electric to introduce the first OCC copper cables and their mechanical grounding and shielding is exceptional......long on science and short on wiffle-dust.
Interconnects: All of the above (open your spice rack and pick the best spice; it depends on whats for dinner).
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December 2, 2014, 12:14 AM #22
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
^^^^^ +1. Agree Furutech PowerFlux products are hard to beat especially when used in combination. Non nonsense. No pseudo science. Real deal. Other leading brands also use Furutech Flux terminations on their own wire, so that in itself says a lot. Their plugs are durable and that carbon/rhodium finish is just divine.
My system predominantly uses Furutech Flux products for power.
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December 2, 2014, 01:57 AM #23
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Crystal Cable
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July 5, 2015, 05:00 PM #24
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Hi all
what about Purist audio,Harmonic technology,Kubala sosna
actually i am using Harmonic technology pro9 ext bi wire fair cheap,but good sound, i have heard Kubala sosna somewhere i would like to hear with my own gear....Ascend Acoustics sierra 2//Modwright KWI 200//Luxman DA-06
Total dac usb//Transparent usb//Stealth pgs08//Kubala sosna Fascination//Kimber pk10 gold//audience powerchord se//Siltech Ruby hill ii//Vibex one7
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July 6, 2015, 01:25 PM #25
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Welcome to the forum Mahesh! Thank you for joining.
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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July 6, 2015, 02:22 PM #26
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
jap.......Am I to assume WW means Wireworld? The others were spelled out in their entirety. Just checking.
Dan
STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax, Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario
LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable, Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113
VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A
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July 6, 2015, 02:36 PM #27
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July 6, 2015, 03:15 PM #28
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Thank you Joe
yes HT is way better for its price
Ht is my fifth cable in 1and half years.
i rellally not thinking to change for some time now
but recenty i saw in French second hand site web a pair of NBS Monitor 0 which cost like 10k and he is selling for 2k only ,now i am tempted againAscend Acoustics sierra 2//Modwright KWI 200//Luxman DA-06
Total dac usb//Transparent usb//Stealth pgs08//Kubala sosna Fascination//Kimber pk10 gold//audience powerchord se//Siltech Ruby hill ii//Vibex one7
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July 6, 2015, 03:33 PM #29
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Being European, I can't help to notice that all manufacturers in the poll are American. How come?
Biased of course, I believe Audience to provide the highest price-performance ratio of all brands I've experienced so far. Moving up the ladder, Tara Labs is a solid provider of high performance cables with great build quality. As are Crystal Cable. At the very top, I'd place Echole at this point in time, who provides cables with an organic, natural presentation that makes most others sound mechanical, flat and two-dimensional in comparison.PERFECT SENSE
www.perfect-sense.se
Showroom in Stockholm, Sweden | info@perfect-sense.se | 08 518 368 00 | Follow us on Facebook
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July 6, 2015, 04:11 PM #30
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
IMHO There is no BEST cable manufacturer. There are several very good ones. It often comes down to what you want to hear, what you want them to look like, what line your preferred dealer(s) carries, what you are willing to pay.
Jim
D'Agostino Momentum M-400's MxV’s & HD Pre-amp
Wilson Alexandria X2 Series 2 speakers
Digital: dCS Vivaldi APEX DAC, Clock & Upsampler
Analog: SME 20/3 with Esoteric E-03 Phono
Transparent Opus Speaker Cable & Interconnects & Opus Power Cords
Power Cords on Digital: Shunyata
Power Conditioner - Shunyata Everest
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July 6, 2015, 05:54 PM #31
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Siltech : Smooth as cat shit!
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July 6, 2015, 06:06 PM #32mauidanGuest
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Premade cables:Audience
DIY: Supra
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July 7, 2015, 12:31 AM #33
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I can't say I've had enough cables to make any sort of determination of what's best. But I have had some Nordost, Transparent, Clarity, Tara, lots of Kimber, Siltech (still own), and a few others. These days, I'm sticking with Verastarr exclusively for power cables, Verastarr and Antipodes Reference for everything else.
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July 22, 2015, 09:12 PM #34
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Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Audience. Power, IC, and Speaker in my system. Have had Tried a few other high end mfg (Cardas, MIT, WW, and others) but these work in my system.
Gryphon Diablo 300 w/DAC, Rockport Mira II, Wolf Audio Alpha 3SX, DSA Phono 2, Origin Live Sovereign MK3, Enterprise MK4, Conqueror MK4, SoundSmith Hyperion, Miyajima Zero
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August 14, 2015, 07:47 PM #35
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
For me AudioQuest rings all the bells. They are fast, incredibly dynamic, very detailed, offering a large and deep soundstage, focused images and naturally rich timbre!
Triangle Magellan Concerto 2 < AQ Everest < Vitus Audio SS-010 Mk2 < AQ Dragon HC < AQ WEL Signature XLR < Chord Qutest w UpTone JS-2 & AQ Dragon Source < SOtM tX-USBultra w 75Ohm Master Clock Input, Paul Hynes SR5-12 Turbo XL & AQ Dragon Source < AQ Diamond USB < Aurender N-100H w AQ Dragon Source < Gryphon PowerZone w AQ NRG-Wild < Solid Tech Hybrid < Ansuz Darkz D-TC, Darkz D2, Stillpoints Ultra SS, Omicron Harmonic Stabilizer & Gold SE < Furutech FT-SWS < Synergistic Research Blue Quantum Fuse
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August 14, 2015, 10:05 PM #36
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
charlieclarke.......To vote in your poll would imply that one has experience with all of those manufacturer's cables, otherwise how would one be able to say which is the best. You left out some other well respected cable manufactures like Kimber, Crystal, Audience, Harmonic Technology, Purist Audio Design, Silver Dragon, Clarus, Morrow Audio, JPS Labs, and others. In addition, at what level are we playing with each cable manufacturer, top of the line, mid-line, or entry? In my opinion no one that I know has anywhere near enough experience with even the cables in your poll, let alone the spectrum of other offerings, to give a definitive and meaningful answer.
Dan
STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax, Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario
LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable, Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113
VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A
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August 14, 2015, 10:09 PM #37
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August 14, 2015, 10:32 PM #38
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
A side-effect of polls like this is that the various manufacturers being listed, and others not listed, clearly demonstrate there is a market for better than stock cables. Since cable deniers state anyone hearing a difference from a better cable is delusional, the success of the cable vendors means one of two things. Either there are a lot of crazy people with stereos, or the higher end cables actually do make a difference. A difference worth buying. Of course, cable deniers can't seem to see, or hear, the obvious. So, I guess if anyone is delusional then it is the cable deniers.
Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
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August 14, 2015, 10:41 PM #39
The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
We all have cable biases. Some love silver, some love copper, some love silver and a little gold, some want a mixture of materials, some love little or big EQ boxes hanging off their cables, some love pseudoscience, some love the big marketing, some love the dog & pony show their cable manufacturer does at trade shows, some love the little guy and some just love their cable because it costs the most.
There is no one size fits all. It all comes down to budget and synergy.My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
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August 14, 2015, 11:07 PM #40
- Join Date
- Mar 2014
- Location
- Chicago
- Posts
- 1,234
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August 14, 2015, 11:19 PM #41
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Cables have to be the most subjective components we own.
There are so many variables. And as far as I'm concerned it all comes down to system synergy.Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
REL Subs
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August 14, 2015, 11:30 PM #42
- Join Date
- Feb 2014
- Posts
- 1,861
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I really hate to say it but in the near future the best cable will be no cable.
This will mean active/powered speaker technology will become the dominant form factor overnight.
Speakeasy
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August 14, 2015, 11:57 PM #43
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I am sure cable manufacturers are losing a little sleep over technology trends. By using the Lumin I eliminated a DAC, power cord to the DAC, and an interconnect between the DAC and music server. I would love to find an integrated amp that equals my current pre/amp combo. That would eliminate two power cords, balanced ICs, and two power conditioners.
Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
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August 15, 2015, 12:18 AM #44
The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
The Devialet does just that - except for power and speaker cables. And you know what? The wifi sounds the best. BUT!! It's still wonky. I know some have had great success, I still get the drop outs.
Another great one is the Avantgarde Zero's. Only thing you need is USB and power to the speakers. There also is a cable between the speakers, but all in all, much less than what we see in a traditional system.My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 15, 2015, 01:31 AM #45
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Posts
- 623
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August 15, 2015, 07:57 AM #46
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
Goldmund Prologos wireless Mk2, rock solid and apparently stunning. I need to get a demo, and demo alone it will be as they retail for $70K.
Think of them as having built in SAM and DRC (without microphones) - (ie, Proteus/Leonardo tech). I hear that they also sound best wireless.
The Silver Phantoms are the same but with a more "fun" home theater/techno music sound. I love how they talk to each other and configure automatically with artificial intelligence.
Finally Linn Xact…the Speaker IS the Source!NORMAN
Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.
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August 15, 2015, 11:55 AM #47
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
I'm not sure I have seen anything quite as legitimate as what Caelin Gabriel does at Shunyata.
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August 15, 2015, 05:58 PM #48
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August 15, 2015, 10:57 PM #49
- Join Date
- Feb 2014
- Posts
- 1,861
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October 5, 2015, 03:45 PM #50
Re: The BEST cable manufacturer? (POLL)
After owning, experiencing and distributing too many brands, my favourite cables are without hesitation Echole. They have 5 price/performance levels: Passion (affordable), Obsession (their first cable line), Signature (the cable they are most know for), Orius (2015 introduction) and the ultra reference Omnia. I have had the privilege to compare Echole during the last year at my own system or friends' vs similar priced (top of the line) cables from Nordost, Shunyata, Siltech, Stealth, MIT, Kimber, Wireworld, Kuala-Sosna and Crystal to name some and Echole has absolutely beaten them.
Echole are the most neutral, organic and true to life cables with incredible resolution and detail. Just by plugging in one Power Cord in your AC distribution device or in your preamp will give you a hint of what is Echole capable to do in your system.
I strongly advise you before investing in expensive cables to audition and if possible compare them vs Echole. Some skeptic friends have moved already to Echole after trial in their own systems. Don't take this as granted. Experience them yourself. visit www.echole.comCARLOS
EMM Labs TSDX CD/SACD Transport + DAC2X V2. DAC
Oracle Delphi MKVI Gen2 + SME Series V & ZYX UNIverse Premium
Kronos Pro Limited Edition + SME Series V12 & ZYX UNIverse Premium
Nagra VPS Phono Stage + VFS + MPS
Absolare Altius Stereo Preamp
Absolare Altius Push-Pull Mono Amps
Echole Limited Edition and Omnia Cables
Torus AVR20 Power Conditioner
Stabilian Decoupling Feet
Speakers: Raidho D3 V2 & Raidho D1.1 Monitors
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I guess the priority is to get the flurry of new SE units out to customers and then take care of the previous model SE upgrades. Seems to be happening that way here also.
Esoteric announce new model N-01XD...