now i need cables

[dhodson]

i just got a pair of jbl s312 speakers and a harmon 520avr receiver (both i got from the deals section here) and now need to make my home system functional. Ill add some more speakers over time. I currently am using the speakers that came with my vcr and dvd player but want to upgrade the whole system in addition to finding good cables for my new floor standing speakers.
Should i buy a particular name brand such as monster and if so from where. Even monster seems to carry multiple brands and i am not certain as to what to get. Currently my system looks nice but it would be better if i could hear it.

D

[Apex]

Man, the audio cable debate. :P

You'll hear WILDLY varying opinions on this, with very strong evidence on both sides. However, with this level of equipment, you'll probably not hear much if any difference between the best of Monster Cable and 12 gauge CL certified cabling from Home Depot. When you get into the Lexicon MC-12, Carver Grand Cinema, & B&W Nautilus 801 category, then it might be worth it to get good cables.

Now video cables are a different matter, especially when you're using them for long runs.

[dhodson]

which cables (name brand) should i get then for video
i believe s video is the best my tv will take

D

[DeepFreeze]

to be honest, radio shack copper OFC cable is fine for speakers.
As for RCA style, twisted pair is fine.
as for making a difference, unless you can afford kimber kable. it doesnt matter. just make sure its OFC. not that its REALLY OF, but for no debate, we will call it oxygen free.

cable is cable, some say strand count is key, i second this. but its a matter of preference.

ASfor video, monster video 2 or higher is fine for anything near 5 meters. anything over 5 metters. use Video 3. S - video.

[Apex]

Originally posted by dhodson
which cables (name brand) should i get then for video
i believe s video is the best my tv will take

D

First off, check to make sure your TV can't use component cabling. Component cabling is the best (short of DVI or VGA). If it can't, then look at S-Video.

Then, let us know how long of a cable you need. If it's a relatively short run, you can use cheap cables like monster or some no-name brand. If it's a long run, you're going to want to use something like http://www.bettercables.com

[dhodson]

all of the cables will be short (less than 3 feet for most)
my tv is about 6 yrs old and s video is its best connection

D

[Apex]

You can use practically anything then.

[dhodson]

i believe the harmon avr 520 can use a bannana connection and maybe even my jbl s312 speakers although im not certain. Any benefit to using this type of connection as opposed to using just plain wire?

D

[Apex]

Banana plugs (and other plugs too) help in terms of longevity. When you initially set up your system, there will be close to no difference in sound quality between bare wire and plugs. However, wires will oxidize if not covered, especially at contact points. Over time, the wires with plugs will sound better.

[Sandman]

I went with Kimber Kable as a recomendation from Paradigm when I bought my speakers from them, because I complained that I easn't getting the freq. response and ouput measured when I visited them in Canada. They said the 8VS is the most real sounding (copper) cable that Kimber Kable makes. I went to my local audio store and picked up some demo cable - 8VS (it is Kimber Kable's 16 strand version) for $50 bucks for 20 feet and they said I could return it if I wasn't satisfied, but I was. It just comes down to your personal preference I could tell the difference many others could not... After that I replaced my interconnects (free monster cables when I bought each component) with Kimber Kable PBJ and revealed the dynamics, the timbre and the harmonic structure I didn't notice before.

I suggest you audition the cable in your system. You may end up loving it. If not you can always return it...

This is my 2 cents with 3 cents change...

[leemaj]

my radio shack cables crapped out on me.