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Phono cable - necessary?

I always thought a phono cable was only necessary if the turntable had a din connector that made use of a regular IC cable impossible so I never really paid much attention to phono cables as my VPI has the typical RCA box for the tonearm. Just recently my dealer told me that phono cables actually use special geometry and construction necessary to conduct the weak signal from the cartridge to the phono preamp properly. I felt flat out embarrassed that I was ignorant of that fact for so long. That said, what is the consensus among audiophiles on this issue? He recommended a Nordost Heimdall 2 phono cable, which at about $650 is certainly not cheap. I am looking to replace my current "phono" cable (Acoustic Zen WOW) as I don't like how thick and rigid it is, even though I really like it sonically. Any advice on the subject?
actusreus

Showing 3 responses by actusreus

actusreus OP
733 posts
 
Chakster.
I've never had any hum or radio bleed-through problems with my turntable. The WOW is actually very well-shielded as are many "regular" IC cables on the market. I'm just curious if there is any theoretical or empirical basis and support for the claim that the signal from the cartridge benefits from a different cable than an IC used between a preamp and an amp. 
actusreus OP
733 posts
 
Al,
Your words of wisdom are greatly appreciated, as always. I actually saw your recommendation for the Blue Jeans cable in a recent phono cable thread started by Pani, and was going to take a look at it. Just curious, what is considered low capacitance for an IC?
actusreus OP
733 posts
 
I have the Nordost Frey 2 on loan for the weekend so that should at least tell me if a designated tonearm cable makes a difference. Especially, based on the price alone it should!
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