Speaker Cable-The Best of the Cheap?

Markd51 you said, "Just like audio gear, a $1,000 Speaker Cable will no doubt NOT sound 10 times better than a $100 one."

Don't believe everything you hear.

The performance of a $100 pair of Paul Speltz Anti-ics made my $3500 ics sound quite veiled in the highs and bloated in the bass. But then a $600 pair of ics that I currently own provide a very good performance improvement over the Anti-ICs not to mention a bit of added musicality.

There simply is no hard and fast rule when it comes to cost v. performance. In fact the best adage to start clinging to is, "One must spend a lot of money to realize one doesn't have to spend a lot of money."

That's true of any hobby and this one being no exception.

I still say the Paul Speltz cables may be the best buy of this decade in high-end audio.

-IMO

One question I have concerning DIY construction, whether the Canare 4s11, or other DIY Cables, do some of you go to the extent of also sheathing the cable?

I've seen some pics of the Canare 4s11 just terminated, and heat shrinked, and it looks good, yet sheathing would add some "boutiqueness" I suppose.

Does anyone have any recommendations on Sheathing, what types are available, what will be the improvements gained, and where can one buy good sheathing, which is also reasonable in cost? Sorry for all the questions, but I suppose one never learns if one doesn't ask!
Thank you! mark

If by sheathing you are referring to the outer expandable braided sleeving, then CableOrganizer.com is a great source, and the sleeving comes in a wide variety of colors.

IMO, it doesn't do a thing to the sound of the cord, but it makes them more cosmetically appealing.

Also, Ramelectronics.net is a good source for speaker terminations, crimping sleeves and crimp tools.

Spend a bit more and contact Greg Straly fro reality cables

"Just like audio gear, a $1,000 Speaker Cable will no doubt NOT sound 10 times better than a $100 one."

I cringe when I read that argument, which I've even seen in professional reviews. The relationship between price and performance is not linear and who would ever expect it to be? Of course it's all diminshing returns! The question is not whether a $1,000 cable sounds 10 times better than a $100 cable, it is whether it sounds $900 better TO YOU.

Off soapbox, and not meant as a snipe at Markd51.