superpc
New Head-Fier
- Joined
- Sep 15, 2009
- Posts
- 33
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- 24
I've used multiple cables from different manufacturers. Biggest changes seem to be slight changes in impedance - which correlates mostly into slight changes in volume (one will be louder than the other). The problem is that most people comparing do not volume match (with a proper SPL meter) when they compare. Therefore whichever one is slightly louder (and it can be something really small like 1 dB) can be perceived as being brighter, more vibrant, better bass, more details, better sound-stage - all the usual jargon. When measuring the frequency change - all that is really different is the volume. The frequency curves almost always match. So changing the volume will net you the same differences. I've started showing it in some of my latest reviews - actual measurements.
Ken has designed cables (especially latest Litz - which is a great cable in terms of comfort, noise, aesthetics and ergonomics) to match perfectly with the IEMs he produces. Why would you add aftermarket cables when in reality you would be better simply adjusting the volume slightly for the same effect?
Hi Brooko, I trust your measurement and is firmly in the camp of if measurement shows no difference there should not be difference. However, I've tried using a Mee Audio P1 cable on my Orion and it changed the sound DRASTICALLY, thou in a bad way. I believe that would actually shows up in measurement although I've no way of measuring it here in SG. I'd love to do it if I could.
I'm not sure how big is the difference in the impedance is between the Mee Audio cable and stock Orion cable. But I really was caught by surprise how big of a change there was because I *did not* believe in cable at all prior to that, so there was no perception bias too in my case.
Off-topic: is a FR measurement equipment expensive?