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Good, Neutral, Reasonably Priced Cables?

After wading through mountains of claims, technical jargon etc. I'm hoping to hear from some folks who have had experience with good, neutral, reasonably priced cables. I have to recable my entire system after switching from Naim and want to get it right without going nuts! Here is what I'm looking for and the gear that I have:

Looking for something reasonably priced-i.e. used IC's around $100-150. Used speaker cable around $300-400 for 10ft pair.

Not looking for tone controls. I don't want to try to balance colorations in my system. I'd like cables that add/substract as little from the signal as possible.

Looking for something easily obtainable on the used market i.e. that I can find the whole set up I need without waiting for months and months. I guess this would limit you to some of the more popular brands. Without trying to lead you, here are some I've been considering:

Kimber Hero/Silver Streak
Analysis Plus Copper Oval/Oval 9
Cardas Twinlink/Neutral Reference (Pricey)
Wireworld Polaris/Equinox

Here is my gear:

VPI Scout/JMW9/ATML170
Audio Research SP16
Audio Research 100.2
Rotel RCD 971
Harbeth Compact 7

I would really appreciate your help on this. Thanks, as always.
dodgealum
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Pick a few cables mentioned in the above posts and try them in your own system. This is the ONLY way you'll know what's right for you.

I'd third VH Audio Pulsars, and agree with the Acoustic Zen Matrix Reference v1. I'd also add MAS Signature interconnects and MAS Black (if you can find them). The MAS interconnects are in your price range, and compare favorably.

Have fun.
hepl
147 posts
 
I have tried the first 3 cables on your list. The best value would be the Kimber Hero. The retail price falls withing your budged. As for the speaker cables I would go with Kimber's 8-TC, also withing your budged.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I'd also like to add MAS Signature Hybrid speaker cable to the suggestions. Once again, it's below your budget and an excellent performer.

Stu Wein usually delivers within a week of your order, if not before, and you have a 30 day trial period.
kappa2
18 posts
 
A 2nd vote for Tara Labs prism cables or the rsc versions, ELF custom cables also are a best buy.
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
Oz, you're starting to sound like Sean! I have changed...I've learned at the very last minute that my system must revolve around the cables, not the other way around. Robert Schult of Ridge Street Audio was the person that got me thinking like that.

Dodge, you're setting yourself up for a trip to Hi Fi hell...

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