Interconnects

[rhuelsey]

Just purchased my new "old" music system: a set of active Linn Kabers, three LK 100 power amps and a Wakonda as pre-amp. The signal that goes in comes from a Cambridge DacMagic Plus, fed by a Mac (iTunes+Pure Music). The good news is: it sounds amazing already, and I didn't even spend real time to adjust the setup yet (I am even missing some screws, etc.)

Here's the question: I am using the factory supplied interconnects and am considering to upgrade them. Any recommendations/experience regarding interconnects between the LK100s as well as between the Wakonda and the LK100s? Currently looking at some 'vintage' AudioQuest (Diamond) as well as some new ones (Mamba II). However: I am new to the interconnect question, so every pointer / hint / opinion is greatly appreciated!

[rowlandhills]

I'd stick to Linn Black or Silver interconnects. They have a certain synergy with Linn components that makes the whole system sound good.

[moomintroll]

(2012-07-28 17:52)rowlandhills Wrote:  I'd stick to Linn Black or Silver interconnects. They have a certain synergy with Linn components that makes the whole system sound good.

I'd agree with Rowland. I ran my Aktiv Kabers + 3 x Klouts + Exotik (and then KK) with Linn Silvers and it was a worthwhile upgrade over Blacks.

'troll

[Rufus McDufus]

I used to be sceptical about cable quality making much difference until, quite a few years ago, I auditioned various high quality interconnects and speaker cables with a Linn system. The Linn blacks were better than the other brands, but the silvers are in a different league. My scepticism took a beating that day.

[Rock'n'Roll Expert Linn Retailer]

I would be looking for a source upgrade, instead of replacing interconnects...

[Warren]

I agree. I'd explore other sources to the Cambridge DAC. I used to have a Cambridge CD2 (if that's any help) and upgraded to a Linn Ikemi CD player. HUGE upgrade. And a Majik DS would be vastly better than that these days.

I'd also get Linn Silver interconnects too. Just because it is a big and easy upgrade.

[rhuelsey]

Mhm, didn't consider the Linn Silvers. Thanks for that idea! Seems that most of you really prefer them over everything else ... another trip to ebay it seems ;-)

Regarding source (and I might get a beating for this one ... but here we go): I actually also have a Karik/Numerik combo and I have to say that running a 96 or 192kHz file through the Cambridge DAC is a step up from the Karik/Numerik sound. Amazing resolution and musicality. With the right setup, it rather reminds me of the sound and emotion my LP12 was able to produce.

[Warren]

Of course, the files you mention are 24 bit recordings, this will sound vastly better than 16 bit recordings.

A Majik DS will greatly outperform your Cambridge DAC with the same file, mp3 or 24/192.

[rhuelsey]

(2012-07-29 01:02)Warren Wrote:  A Majik DS will greatly outperform your Cambridge DAC with the same file, mp3 or 24/192.

Currently figuring out the DAC scene - so the Cambridge is a nice start, but will definitely check out the Majik and above :-)

[stevie]

(2012-07-29 00:39)rhuelsey Wrote:  Mhm, didn't consider the Linn Silvers. Thanks for that idea! Seems that most of you really prefer them over everything else ... another trip to ebay it seems ;-)

You may have noticed that Linn Silvers are pretty expensive - currently £210 for a metre pair. I went down the DIY route - got some Linn Silver cables off-the-reel and some Eichmann bullet plugs, and a little while with a hot soldering iron. My DIY cable trounced the Linn Blacks without any problem - I haven't auditioned them against factory Linn Silvers, as I cannot afford them Another option is to get some Mogami 2549 cable - it's cheaper than Linn Silver and better than Blacks, but not as good as Silver. I'm in the process of trying out some Neotech interconnect cable.