How to find synergy - high end cable choices

[Sounding]

One of the key points I have concentrated on when selecting hardware has been synergy. Simply put, equipment that works well together.

I believe I have achieved that so far, having selected speakers and electronics for this high end system from the same manufacturer, Tidal Audio (not associated with the Tidal streaming company).

I say "so far" because I don't think I have quite finished the journey.

I am quite happy with what I am hearing, but am told I should be using better cables.

I am using, comparative to my hardware, basic XLR interconnects and speaker cables.

Sure I could assure synergy by getting cables from Tidal, however their cost is in the realm of a fairly decent midrange system (up to $20K for new speaker cables).

So, to look elsewhere for cables, I figure the only way to achieve synergy is to try it and see. That could get expensive and achieve little, and there are so many brands making some very expensive cables. There is also the risk of adding colour / warmth etc by choosing unwisely - Tidal is respected for being very neutral.

Do I cut out the risk and save for cables from Tidal, do I try some other cables - and if so, how to find synergy, or do I stop at what I have?

Currently Transparent Audio Ultra MM2 XLR, and Tara Labs RSC Prime 1500 speaker cables, these have all been bought used due to budget, and to replace some embarrassingly entry level cables I had prior.

[maximus]

Might be best to email Tidal and see what they might suggest. Those speakers would have a larger base in Europe than here, even search overseas forums for their input.

[David A]

Tidal's house sound from aural memory leans toward resolution and tonal neutrality. From my experience owning a pair of Marten Coltrane Alto's, and my ear time with other Accuton-based Martens, as a rule of thumb I'd suggest copper in lieu of silver cables.

 

Having gone through upgradeitis ascending the range of Jorma cables from Duality through to their flagship Statement cables, i've grown weary of spending a fortune on cables. Yes cables matter, and higher end cables generally improve the sound. But after being an audiophile for 35 years, I've now learned where to find value upgrading my system. And high end cables imho are one of the worst places to drop big $$ on due to the huge markups on cables (especially once the Distributor and Dealer margins are added on). So i'm looking mainly at cable manufacturers who sell direct, which cuts out the middle man.

To be certain that any choice of cables will have good synergy in your system, you'll have to test the cables out in situ...or in a very similar setup in a Dealer's showroom. Many cable manufacturers offer a 30 day or similar money-back guarantee, and some Dealers are happy to offer you loaners so you can try out the cables at home. Good luck with your search.

 

Edited July 15, 2024 by David A

[Piddi]

A good start to ‘How to find synergy’ is by working with your dealer. A carefully curated system demands same high level connectivity - I spoke with Richard at Lotus and he’s right. At your level equipment I wouldn’t be saving on ancillaries or continue the second hand merry go round as you’ll just not be getting there. I got in touch with Tara Labs in the US and they suggested ’The2’ speaker cables which I settled on for my Vimbergs. Massive improvement from previous Chord cables. I recently disconnected the Shunyata power cord from my Vitus amp - only then I realised what impact these cables have on the overall presentation and performance. Flick an email to Richard at Shunyata or speak with Michael at AV gallery. Great guys trading brilliant cables. I settled again on neutral sound signature for XLR’s and went with Hijiri Million from Combak. Cables aren’t cheap and do make a difference, certainly in your resolving rig. I always suggest to tune your system with cables after getting the room acoustics right. No need to spend $60k on an Anzus cord though.