Interconnects - worse the extra ?

[PD_BARBS]

Ok Folks

I read alot about changing your cables, but really want to know is the difference noticable.

I currently have Sky+ plugged into a Tosh 37WLT66, using a basic enough scart. Connected to my TEAC AV Receiver by a cheap optical cable. My TEAC in turn is wired to Tannoy EFX5.1 speakers, using the cables that came in the box.

So basically what I want to know is, what should I change to get the most value, and in what priority, should I change my scart, speaker cables, power cable.

Loads of options, but not much in terms of knowledge,

Any advise and recommendations would be appreciated.,

Thanks

[mephistophelean]

The only way to really know is to try it yourself.

There are many people on here who have different opinions. I am in the "no it makes no difference" having tried out a double blind test using my wife as a test subject with many cheap and expensive interconnects. Neither my wife and I could hear any differences except once where my wife actually thought the cheapest cable sounded slightly better than all the others. However, there are other people here who do hear differences and there are lots of threads here that have people arguing one case or the other.

Many hifi stores will let you "buy" their demo cables, try them out and then refund your money when you return the cables.

[deaf cat]

I've a 3 core silver power lead pluged into my Arcam AV reciever (on demo)and still can't understand how changing a power lead can make a difference, one will shortly be on order

Have to try cables for your self

[davepuma]

Personally I don't think that expensive cables can make things sound/look better but cheap, poorly made cables can make it worse. You don't need to go overboard and spend loads, stick with brands like Profigold that are good value and you can't go wrong. In the end, upgraded cables are better built and made from better materials. Most digital cables don't make a blind bit of difference IMHO, apart from HDMI which can degrade over longer lengths. You don't buy expensive USB leads do you? I've got various priced cables in my system and yes I can see/hear subtle differences but I'm afraid it's very subjective and it's best if you try yourself. I wouldn't use the cheap out-of-the-box SCARTS though as are rubbish, can fall apart inside your kit and damage it and I can deffo see an improvement even on a cheap SCART cable. Have a look at Vivanco Prowire, THOR and Philex which aren't expensive.

[PD_BARBS]

Thanks for the reponses.


I will try a few cables and post my thoughts accordingly. I will start by upgrading my scart. I will leave the power cable for the meantime, as where do I change it, as still don't see how this impacts the overall quality, considering I am on a budget Receiver.