Can we objectively rate speaker cables?


I'd like to generate discussion to compile some sort of chart that compares cable attributes. I realize that cable attributes will vary by system, but I would think that in the same system, certain generalizations can be made. For example, I think many would agree that copper is generally warmer than silver. That said, I propose the following categories. Feel free to add categories to make this a mutually-exclusive, collectively-exhaustive list and/or offer ratings for cables you've auditioned.

A. analytical/detailed (1) - warm (10)
B. closed soundstage (1) - open soundstage (10)
C. slow (1) - fast (10)
jennyjones
06-24-09: Dave_b
Rova and Jadem6, despite my love of Spongebob and a good laugh once in a while (even a not so good laugh), my experience with cabling has been vast and with a ton of varying gear. That said, I hesitate to pontificate because I know the fallacy of trying to pin down a moving target. The list of attributes you are listing heavily overlap the domains of the ancillary equipment /speakers involved, let alone the room/environment and accessories.

Absolutely, all parts of the system affect the end sound; some to a greater degree than another. If you read my post closely I readily addmitted the attributes I chose were not cable specific but generic. Do other components have a greater influence than cables, sure.

The adult thing to do is.....one more time.....call Robert Stein at the Cable Company and ask for advice, then try as many cables as you want before you then buy what works for YOU!! No variables, no hyperbole, no bad jokes, nothing but real cables in your system with your ears. End of story =:- )

Really? So the only opinion that counts is Robert Stein's? {No disrespect to Mr. Stein who I don't know personally.) I do agree that the only opinion that really counts is your own, after hearing the cable in your own system. However, if I follow your reasoning then we could just eliminate the discussion forums altogether. After all there is no point discussing cables as there can be no common point of reference. The discussion would be totally pointless so just get cables from Robert Stein and don't bother talking about it.

Please...!

I'm not naive enough to think we can absolutely pin down any component, never mind cables, using a subjective system regardless of how precise we make the words. However, I can see the benefits of hobbyists sharing their experiences with each other. I was only proposing we come up with some common languages and / or common scales with which we have these discussions. I find that when many users have positive things to say about a component then there is probably something good up with that component. If most of those users mention a common characteristic then there's a pretty good chance that I would find the same thing in my system (certainly not a guarantee though).

Is there a problem with sharing our experiences with each other?

Anyway, for my choice I prefer Zero-va speaker cables and Zero-va interconnects. Why? Because I designed them and I built them and they work fantastic. 'nough said!

ROVA
"Is there a problem with sharing our experiences with each other?"
Maybe they only have 1 set.
Rova, sharing is good. I appreciate your opinion and concede, that when there is overwhelming support for a product, it may be worth looking into. My previous post, which I think you missed, states what I was trying not to do. I do have some pretty good insights into alot of things audio and I do pontificate and share readily when asked to do so on an individual basis by E-mail. This is all good stuff and should be taken as great fun. The product placement part of your post was probably not the best way to end your sincere counterpoints...it kinda blows your 'Cred a little? Maybe not...I'll check out your stuff for fun if I can assuming you market them on the web. Robert Stein, owner of the Cable Company, who is a great human being and business man, is a neutral party with records of individual audiophiles systems and cable success's. It can be a an invaluable place to start or end up, depending on your level of patience.
Dave_b stated.
The product placement part of your post was probably not the best way to end your sincere counterpoints...it kinda blows your 'Cred a little? Maybe not...I'll check out your stuff for fun if I can assuming you market them on the web.

Sorry but you can't buy them. Actually, I don't sell them at all. I have released the designs as DIY projects for those who might be interested. (I hope being DIY doesn't automatically lower their value in some peoples eyes. Those who don't mind picking up some hand tools should try them. I think they will be pleasantly surprised. I have several people who have completed the projects and are very pleased with the results. Some are even lamenting that they didn't have these before they spent lots of dollars on commercial cables.}

If you are interested you can check out the projects at the following links:

Zero-va Interconnects
http://www.canuckaudiomart.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=10495
Zero-va Speaker cables
http://www.canuckaudiomart.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=10788

Sorry if it sounded like a plug, it was more like sticking my nose in the air :)

ROVA
Rova:
If you are interested you can check out the projects
Thanks for the refs... However, why don;t you give a brief approximation of what yr system sounds like with these wires? It would be interesting.