[kchau]

I just got my Q701's, and I love the sound, but I want to DIY a braided cable now that i have some free time on my hands.
 
I like the look of the ALO audio braided cable, but at 350 i do not want to buy it.
 
How can i make my own?
 
I understand i need a 3 pin mini xlr, and a 1/4" plug. But what are good brands, and what kind of cable should i get if i want to do braided?

 

[Pingupenguins]

Check markertek for parts from REAN/Neutrik. The also sell Canare and Mogami star quad for the cable.

 

[kchau]

Quote:

Check markertek for parts from REAN/Neutrik. The also sell Canare and Mogami star quad for the cable.

those are great prices for connectors.
 
I want to make a braided cable though. What kind of wire should i get to do that?

 

[Pingupenguins]

Some people buy the Canare/Mogami and strip it. I just bought 20' of Mogami to strip it and harvest the 26 AWG clear wire.

 

[kchau]

that seems like a lot of work for me. is there a place where i can just buy clear wire?

 

[Pingupenguins]

Yes, but there is a reason I have to buy Mogami and strip it rather than just buying clear wire. It's too expensive otherwise.

 

[kchau]

did you do 3 conductors or 4 conductors for unbalanced operation?
 
how much did it cost you? is 28awg a decent size?

 

[Pingupenguins]

depends if there is a y-split. For a y you will need 4 conductors. If there isn't you can follow the config that AKG layed out. Typically I always go 4, unless its a extension cable in which case you don't need 2 grounds.
 
I think this whole recable should cost you $25-$30 ish. and I use 28 AWG all the time. It's light and it works

 

[soundlikes]

Any preference between Canare and Mogami, SQ or sound color differences?

 

[Lurkumaural]

Your Q701 cable has 3 conductors.  No need to include a fourth to make a replacement cable.
 
EDIT:  4-way braid is way prettier than 3-way, though.  And with 26awg or smaller it should be easy enough to get that fourth wire into the connectors.

 

[Pingupenguins]

Quote:

Any preference between Canare and Mogami, SQ or sound color differences?

I haven't noticed, but SPC to Mog, mog sounds much more smooth and relaxed

 

[liamstrain]

Quote:

Any preference between Canare and Mogami, SQ or sound color differences?

My recollection is Mogami is easier to work with. The Canare has the conductors covered in lacquer, and that requires an extra step to clear off before soldering. 
 
From a sound standpoint, there is no difference.