Thoughts/Opinions on Digital Coax cables for DACs

Hey everyone

Sorry for not particpating as much as others. I've been busy with other things non audio related.

I'm just wondering what people's thoughts are or what digital coax cables they use for their DACs/transports. Are the cables that $50 or more really head and shoulders above the budget cables from Monoprice or BJC?

Currently right now I'm using BJC digital coax throughout and am happy with the sound.

I'm getting a used McCormack DAC-1 and from talking to Steve (I'm shocked I was able to speak to him. I just called for the hell of it) and he suggested the Veloce Digital Coax cable by Chris Sommavigo.

http://www.blackcatcable.net/veloce.php

From other people asked I got suggestions to look @ the DH Labs customized Digital Coax from Moon Audio.

These cables though range from $123 to $170.

Thx and advise when you can. JD

Try to use your existing cable with the new dac and see how it sounds to you.

If it sounds good then there's no need to a more expensive one.

Btw, I DO believe in cables so...

Ditto, if you're happy with the sound then.......

BTW, good to hear from you!

Mobile & Hugh

Thanks so much for the honesty gents. I think most audiophiles would have just said to get the more expensive cables right off the bat. I'll give the BJC cables a try and try to resist the urge to get the Veloce cables.

JD

With respect, the typical advice to "try what you have and if you like it, leave it" does not really address the issue. The simple fact is that different coax cables sound different, and the same cables often sound different in different setups. And often, but not always, "different" is better. This is not always a function of price. I have tried a half-dozen different coaxes in my system from $9 to $250, and have found a couple in the $120 range that I like (although I admit I do like the more expensive Voodoo cable better). I'm taking delivery of a couple more to try (including the Veloce, arriving today) to see if I can get anything better within my budget.

The point is, if you're satisfied with your system, there is no point experimenting with gear, whether expensive or not. But how many times did you think your system couldn't sound better, only to find that, in fact, it can sound better? And that experience comes from experimenting. It doesn't mean that more expensive cables are necessarily better; it does mean that there is a good chance there is a "better" cable for you out there somewhere. If you try, say, a half dozen cords and the differences shrink to near zero between the last two finalists, then you're done (at least for a while!). But to ask if a Voodoo cable is 'better' than BJC is not really the point. It is a question of trying cables within your budget, not trying to rationalize your less expensive gear as being as good as expensive gear - it might be; it might not be, but only your system knows for sure.

For example, I have a couple of Verastarr Grand Illusion power cords in my system I like a lot. They are expensive. I took them to my buddy's house for a spin in his much more expensive system. It was clear in two minutes that they were not in sync in the midbass, and that his modest Pangea's were a better match. But I have tried the Pangeas in my system, and although okay, they don't have the magic of the Verastarrs. I am happy I paid the money for them. But that doesn't mean they are perfect everywhere.

My advice is to try a few other cords in your price range to see if you say "wow." If you don't, you'll be out some shipping charges, but you'll know the BJC is for you. Otherwise, lighten your wallet and enjoy the difference. There is fun in experimenting, so long as (like drinking) it is done responsibly.

Good luck whatever your decision!

well said kugs...