Hello tbg, Your observations regarding sound levels differs from mine. I found that the CT-1 cables increased the sound level I heard, but, of course, my system differs from yours.
Depending on the input and output impedences, and the voltage levels being transmitted, the increased resistance of the CT-1 conductor (compared to pure copper/silver/gold/aluminum) might be causing your drop in sound level.
Your impressions on noise levels is consistent with what I hear. I can only imagine how little noise would exist with CT-1 speaker cables along with the IC cables.
Depending on the input and output impedences, and the voltage levels being transmitted, the increased resistance of the CT-1 conductor (compared to pure copper/silver/gold/aluminum) might be causing your drop in sound level.
Your impressions on noise levels is consistent with what I hear. I can only imagine how little noise would exist with CT-1 speaker cables along with the IC cables.