DO CABLES REALLY MATTER?


Yes they do.  I’m not here to advocate for any particular brand but I’ve heard a lot and they do matter. High Fidelity reveal cables, Kubala Sosna Elation and Clarity Cable Natural. I’m having a listening session where all of them is doing a great job. I’ve had cables that were cheaper in my system but a nicely priced cable that matches your system is a must.  I’m not here to argue what I’m not hearing because I have a pretty good ear.  I’m enjoying these three brands today and each is presenting the music differently but very nicely. Those who say cables don’t matter. Get your ears checked.  I have a system that’s worth about 30 to 35k retail.  Now all of these brands are above 1k and up but they really are performing! What are your thoughts. 
calvinj
I’ve been searching for the best sound for decades and what I’ve found is that electron transport is essential but that task is performed by the cheapest connections so long as they’re not compromised by faults. Bad shielding, mostly.  99+% of the hype for connections is snake oil.  The biggest bang comes with dough spent on speakers, then on electronics. 

IMO, tubes/analog are more pleasing than digital, and great speakers are sublime Speakers are the key.
Do cables really matter?
Yes. They transmit the signal.

What are your thoughts.

Do you really want to know the answer? Your original post is somehow, in advance, dismissive of those who say the cables don't matter.

I find them, to some irrational level, increasing the pleasure of overall experience without changing the sound. Of course, provided that they are not cracked with loose contacts, or something like that.

My hearing is fine. My experience with multi-thousand-Dollar cables very limited.
I've got McIntosh separates  and Martin Logan Renaissance's and I have to give it a pretty big "no".  Just get quality wires, but no need to spend $100's apiece, as cables and cleaners are way to over rated.  The value of any improvement (if any) is certainly not worth the cost.  Better off, saving the money up for better speakers some day or a quality amp, if you already don't have one.