Many tend to believe that cables do not have a direct effect on the quality of sound; I once believed the same. It is through my experiences with the JBL L112 speakers, that finally revealed to me what is actually factual. This is the story of my journey through the world of cables, in the search for that "magic" that would provide orgasmic energy (for the ears).
First Experiments in the Jungle:
When I first got these speakers, I never expected that cables could influence sound, the way they do. I was firmly convinced that a cable is just copper, plastic, and a bit of technical skill to make it right.
I spent several shifts as a cable production machine operator at Lietkabelis, making R2 cables that ended up in Mercedes cars. Since my time making cables and my experience as a radio show host (a real wordplay here in Lithuanian), I thought I knew enough about them; it’s the speakers that can sound better or worse, it’s definitely not the f***ing cable.
Silver Traps and Shamanic Rituals
In perfect timing came the JBL L112, followed by a knowing friend who suggested silver cables—so pure that I highly doubted whether such silver existed in nature. The result? The JBLs acquired such a mean sharpness that I wouldn't even wish upon my worst enemy. Ouch!
Then another friend, a cable shaman, advised me to switch to "the cheapest electrical store cable. Don't joke, you definitely don't need that sharpness!". So, I went, bought one, and—voila!—from overly sharp hi-fi sound, I descended into the low-fi swamp of sadness. But a great lesson was learned: CABLES DO CHANGE THE SOUND.
"Snake Oil" or a Real 3-Year Relationship?
Upon walking into a hi-fi store, I introduced myself as not one of those who buys "snake oil-soaked" cables, so I asked for the cheapest but most reliable one. They gave me AudioQuest. I returned home, plugged it in, and it was like a great 3D movie—wow! The sound came to life like never before! I lived with these AudioQuest cables longer than with some girlfriends—three years. But when I upgraded my equipment, I decided it was time for the cables to move to the next level. Why not? I bought more expensive AudioQuest cables. Everything fitted expectations: more clarity, vocals right in front of me, instruments almost falling out of the speakers, but…the sound "lost its soul" (?) Maybe this is the "musicality" aspect that audiophiles have been looking for? It tasted of expensive wine—good, qualitative, but it doesn't inspire you to write a poem.
Listening Marathon and Nagging Doubts
After this realization, I tried the recommended Japanese cables. I changed these cables countless times, and listened until my ears got completely tired. Even after all the experiments, the long-standing AudioQuest remains the winner for what I now call "musicality." Even after all these experiments, long-standing AudioQuest remains the winner for what I now call "musicality." And now? One question keeps me awake: how much am I really "listening" to cables and how much is placebo? It seems like this journey through the jungle of sound won't be over so easily.
My top cable list:
AudioQuest Slip - DB 14/2—1st place
AudioQuest Rocket 11—3rd place
Canare 4S11G—2nd place, but perhaps it's time to give it another listen?! 🤔
Literally every fan of sound and audiophile probably spends a great amount of time experimenting and searching for "the one" cable and overall PA compatibility. I think there will be a continueation. If you are curious about what cables await me next, and what other stories this world of sound conceals, follow my vlog here, and lets explore the sounds together.
Subscribe: www.tomasvejas.com/blog
Comments