Question of priorities in audio cables

(a)EXCLUDING THE MAJORITY OF CHEAP CABLES either bought or DIY versions cobbled together from cheap materials In the first place..... I do not agree with any proposition that any particular one of these three factors in isolation ranks higher than any of the others .

(b)This argument is exponentially magnified in high(er)-end cables

E.g say Nordost Frey and higher grade NORDOST cables as just one simple representative example to make the point: this level of cables embodies the intuitive synergy of all of them that makes them sound better than (a) their own cheaper models and (b) many other cables in general

The following cable characteristics and parameters are all primarily a function of the design of the wire, and its length. I'm including in this list characteristics and parameters whose audible significance is debatable, as well as others whose significance is well established:

Resistance, inductance, capacitance, shielding, bandwidth, dielectric absorption, “time alignment,” strand jumping, skin effect, metal purity, “characteristic impedance,” noise rejection, the susceptibility of interconnects to ground loop issues (the latter being dependent on the resistance of the shield or other return conductor), and susceptibility to unwanted antenna effects.

It seems to me that quality workmanship and good contact integrity are readily and widely available, at nearly all price points. So I would have to vote for the design of the wire, and its suitability for the particular application, as being the highest priority.

I would note, however, that in the special case of digital cables a stronger argument can be made for connector importance, due to the need for precise impedance matching .

Regards,
-- Al

I don't think there's any debate about that.

;-)