I did measure a difference between my new Kimber 12TC and AudioQuest 14/4

[RayDunzl]

Why not (carefully and appropriately) measure the "sound", since that, supposedly, is what's being changed in the end?

 

[fpitas]

Why not (carefully and appropriately) measure the "sound", since that, supposedly, is what's being changed in the end?

It's a whole lot more sensitive and repeatable to perform purely electronic measurements, for example sampling the voltage right at the speaker terminals. And even more repeatable to measure it like Amir does.

 

[egellings]

Yeah, it was kind of doomed from the start.

It be that way sometime.

 

[rrc4860]

Okay.. let me ask an absurd rookie question. What does this mean to someone who doesn't understand such in depth technical stuff? I was considering replacing my AudioQuest Gibraltar biwire cables with Kimber 12TC biwire-- i have a MA5300 integrated McIntosh amp and Klipsch Forte IV speakers. Google brought me to this post. Please don't beat the crap out of me if this question doesn't merit a response.

 

[Speedskater]

It means that you are replacing one way too pricey cable with another way to pricey cable.
Sound wise? There will be no difference.

 

[rrc4860]

It means that you are replacing one way too pricey cable with another way to pricey cable.
Sound wise? There will be no difference.

I did get the Gibraltars used at 650 bucks. I do appreciate the reality check. How about this one: should I get a phono stage so I can use MC coil phono cartridges instead of the MM I'm stuck with (thanks McIntosh.) Currently using a Sumiko Amethyst on a MOFI ultra-deck turntable. Fire away, please

 

[Apesbrain]

How about this one: should I get a phono stage so I can use MC coil phono cartridges instead of the MM I'm stuck with (thanks McIntosh.)

Simply being an MC does not automatically make for a better cartridge. Your Sumiko is a good performer.

What "problem" with your system are you hoping to solve with these changes?

 

[rrc4860]

Simply being an MC does not automatically make for a better cartridge. Your Sumiko is a good performer.

What "problem" with your system are you hoping to solve with these changes?

I have to admit-- I've fallen for the hypes all over the place. I need to just sit with the system and enjoy it. You asked me for a "problem"-- I don't really have one.. I'm one of those easily seduced by the promises. Thanks for your reality check.

 

[pseudoid]

Pink noise suggestion 'sounded' like a good idea.
Forget the speaker(s) >> use some dummy-load(s) at end of AQ/Kimbers!
If all else fails, rent a micro-Ohmmeter for giggles.

 

[ta240]

Why not (carefully and appropriately) measure the "sound", since that, supposedly, is what's being changed in the end?

because that isn't giving the desired results

 

[Apesbrain]

Thanks for your reality check.

You have quality components. If you'd like, post a few photos of your listening room so people can offer suggestions on optimizing your listening experience.

 

[Ricardus]

$6.50 cables will sound exactly the same as your $650 cables.

 

[fpitas]

$6.50 cables will sound exactly the same as your $650 cables.

To me they'd sound better because I hadn't been defrauded.

 

[Speedskater]

How about this one: should I get a phono stage so I can use MC coil phono cartridges instead of the MM I'm stuck wit

This probably needs to be in another thread and another sub-forum.
But, speaker cables are super simple.
And phono cartridges >> cables >> pre-amp input stages are super complex.

 

[fpitas]

This probably needs to be in another thread

I believe we have a couple appropriate threads going.

 

[pseudoid]

$6.50 cables will sound exactly the same as your $650 cables.

My DIY speaker cables will sound exactly same better than your $6.50 cables because I used cryogenic silver solder on my connections.