STOP Worrying About These 5 Things in Audio!

[@laurocantu3324]

I think my truck always runs and handles better after I wash it...I think once you purchase your products and are happy with the sound and performance, you should immediately stop watching reviews on new and upcoming products. All they do is leave you second guessing your decisions.

[@graysonpeddie]

Yeah, I had to quit watching reviews of new speakers because I'm happy with my JBL Stage A180 floorstanding speakers. Plus, I'm glad I did some research regarding the impedance switching in my Denon AVR-X3400H receiver. I purchased a discontinued model because I do not want to pay $300 for eARC at the time and honestly, if I do want HDMI 2.1 for 4K at 120Hz, I can just get an audio extractor and pass audio to my AVR and video to my TV. Plus, I'm not too much of an audiophile probably due to my hearing impairment since the day I was born. So yeah, at the end of the day, I do have to control KZbin's algorithms so that it does not recommend speakers to buy. I have to do lots of research and spend responsibly.

[@gww730]

Washing my car instantly adds at least 25 bhp.

[@JayDrinking]

I bought a Arendal 1723 THX LCR as my first setup and boy when I tell you. I had my days of thinking about returning it

[@MagicTK-]

​@@gww730 Adding pin stripes adds 10 to 15 HP as well.

[@SwirlingDragonMist]

Wisdom

[@blueriverlore]

I have 70 year old ears and eyes. I can't hear frequencies above 13 Khz and I wear glasses. I could throw all the money in the world at a system that costs me $150K but getting old has reminded me that I'm very happy with my current setup.

[@Audioholics]

13khz hearing is amazing at 70 years old. Be proud of that. My hearing doesn't extend much beyond that and I'm 50.

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

@@Audioholics This is interesting. 73 and ~14k.

[@Audioholics]

@@Douglas_Blake_579 occupational hazard

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

@@Audioholics 👍 But, there's an amazing feature hidden behind every Volume Control... Amazingly they can actually be used to turn things down! Who knew?

[@tedrubinstein2003]

Ahh your still young

[@edsonmenini1570]

"you don't need validation from others, even from us" is very honest and revealing, thanks for that! 👋

[@EHiggins]

"I need to hear how your speakers sound through my speakers" XD It is like the old TV commercials that show you how awesome another TV looks on your TV.

[@doctorbritain9632]

I find the type of wine I'm drinking when listening to music makes more difference than almost anything else. A fine Bordeaux sounds best.

[@Audioholics]

💯

[@raygarza6231]

Single malt scotch sounds best

[@doctorbritain9632]

@raygarza6231 Oh yes that's good too.

[@kensmith5694]

Cabernet Franc with a sunset sounds the best.

[@doctorbritain9632]

I appear to have started something.

[@gww730]

If you truly believe that cables (or other associated tweaks) will improve sound quality, then you will absolutely hear differences. I firmly believe that music sounds better between 6pm - 8pm in the evening, and even better when the weather is nice outside. Perception is everything.

[@Audioholics]

Also your mood has a huge affect on sound perception. My best listening occurs late night when everyone is asleep and I'm in the solitude of my theater room.

[@_Chev_Chelios]

@peterowings7233gene has an episode about using a little MJ to elevate your experience.

[@genkifd]

to me believing or not does not matter - what matter is the consumer hears a difference or not. if he / she does or does not shouldnt matter to anyone else.

[@robertriwden2990]

Beer helps too!

[@doctorbritain9632]

I have a theory about the cable thing and it's all to do with WAF. If an audiophile gets the itch to change something and he has aggressively imposed WAF conditions he can buy cables without said WAF imposer noticing. I might be wrong, but it's just a theory.

[@axebeard7677]

I built a decent home theater and didn’t use it for like 3 months because I was busy working all the time. When I finally sat down to watch a movie it sounded so much better than I remembered.

[@davidjudd951]

A friend of mine couldn't quite fit his new receiver into his cabinet. I went over there with a rasp and widened the slot. He said that, that was the best audio file he ever saw.

[@markrigg6623]

Didn't it make the vocals sound a bit raspy?

[@davidjudd951]

@markrigg6623 Ha, ha, good one.

[@Aged-Mark]

Hi Gene, Looking for a new preamp I came across this, "Townshend Audio’s unique Fractal™ wire, which was developed over many years of critical listening, by the most discerning audiophiles and is audibly superior to plain copper, silver and even DCT copper wire. The result is the most accurate, uncoloured and open-sounding preamplifier possible, offering astonishing transparency and resolution of the finest details." Have you tested their Fractal cables?

[@Lif-999]

Simple, plain words of great erudition! Delivered almost as plea to a multitude of slack jawed, gullible consumers. I do hope someone is listening. Respect.

[@BillDouglass-m9d]

The only thing every audiofile should concentrate on is working on room treatments not so much on equipment. 😊

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

Even though I disagree with Dennis Foley on some details, his youtube videos and shop is a great place to start: Acoustic Fields

[@vinylrules4838]

​@@Munakas-wq3gp Curious what details you disagree with. I have been watching his videos for a few years now.

[@vinylrules4838]

Agree 💯 % on room treatment. It is about 50% of the sound. I wish everyone could hear a great system in a properly treated room. I think most people would be astonished at what is possible. Aside from room treatment is speaker placement. Looking at photos across the internet, most people don't even have their speakers properly set up.

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

@@vinylrules4838 Mainly about speaker size vs room size and subwoofers. Dampening is not the only way to treat room modes, it can be achieved by using multiple subs in calculated positions. A well designed speaker will work in any room regardless of ithe speakers size. Aside these minor details I fully agree on everthing else and I have recommended Acoustic Fields to numerous poeple who fight with their rooms.....

[@kensmith5694]

@@vinylrules4838 I know my speakers are not properly set up. Thats the space I have and it is good enough.

[@SpockLogic66]

I feel everyone, whether beginner or a veteran, in our hobby and passion, needs to watch this video. No-nonense, logical advice from a man who also understands the science of audio. Well done, Gene!

[@freepress8451]

I was thinking exactly the same, too many reviewers promote their sponsors wares

[@SimplyGetPaid]

@1:58 🤔🧐 SO FUNNY YOU BRING THIS UP.. ..I FIRST SET UP MY RECEIVER AND SETTLED ON 4 OHMS AFTER GOING BACK AND FORTH BETWEEN 4 AND 8 OHMS BECAUSE IT SEEMINGLY SOUNDED LOUDER AT THE TIME.. ..ABOUT 6 MOS LATER, ON A BORED DAY, I REVISITED THAT SELECTION AND WAS ASTONISHED AT HOW I COULD HAVE MISSED THE ABSENCE OF DYNAMIC RANGE (AND FIDELITY)..

[@Infidelio]

The most blinged audiophile systems remind me of religious altars. Everything is perfectly spaced and tiered. The holy speaker cables must not be allowed to touch the floor. The vinyl comes out like the most holy book, cleaned to laboratory perfection and zapped with an anti-static gun. But seriously, belief plays such a large role in the industry. 'Can you hear the divine soundstage, brothers and sisters?' 'You must have faith.' 'The double-blind listening test is Satan trying to test your faith.' "Believe, believe!"

[@carlitomelon4610]

Truth. But you have to keep your eyes closed during music services 🎵🎶🙏🎶🎵

[@bobtowncarguy82]

I agree with everything you said. The only person who needs to love your system is you. Don't overspend on things. Most of the audio products depreciate. There are a few products that hold their value.

[@user-st9wh4ed5l]

Almost no electronic device including speakers and AVR's retain anywhere near their value. Not even close.

[@AxlAX]

​@user-st9wh4ed5lI beg to differ. You'd be surprised how much these things go for in online auctions.

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

THANK YOU GENE! All 5 points are right on the money... The best audio advice I ever got was: *Do all the free stuff first* Move speakers, in small increments, until you find their sweet spots. Move your listening position, in small increments to find the best sound. Clean and maintain all the connectors in your system. Learn to do dust removal and control cleaning on your gear. Listen to the music ... not your system... You'll enjoy it more. For what Gene calls Audio Jewelry ... Treat it as such. Do not expect any improvements in sound quality from cables, weights, crystals or gadgets. Without hesitation I will tell you the whole "high end" accessories industry is borne of nothing better than ripping off gullible people. All those big displays and fancy show tricks exist for one reason an one reason only ... to part you from as much of your money as they can! Ask yourself why you put your system together, Was it for you and your family to enjoy... or was it to impress your friends? It is far more likely that you are the only person who is impressed by your system. All the regular folks in your life simply don't care and are entirely unimpressed by it. Also consider the sheer folly of building an amazing system then locking it away in a private listening room that only you go to. It is likely you would make a much better impression on others by cleverly integrating a mid-fi system into your living room so that everyone can enjoy it. There is considerable value in not dumping cash on the "next greatest thing". We are at a point in engineering and design where changes are incremental and often very small. Most often you can skip 3 or even 4 generations of a product before there's any good reason to upgrade. Again... the best audio advice I ever got ... Do all the free stuff first!

[@markh351]

Especially the part about seeking validation from others. Well said. Everybody has their own biases and preferences.

[@schaunkleynhaus5041]

I'm going to bookmark the video and listen to it every time I want to buy something. Great advice man. Ons of your best.

[@crashedcorvette]

The information was extremely helpful, especially the beginning about impedance. I am mixing brands of speakers, and 4 ohm and 5 ohm and 8 ohm in an 11 channel system. I just keep the receiver cooler by running a fan cooler on the top that also helps with ventilation

[@Roudaki677]

I am in charge of decent size development and engineering department in a company that designs telecom equipment. I spend staggering $$$ for compliance and safety. When I see audiophile fuses that do not have a UL certification I truly freak out. I keep preaching this type of scrutiny to younger audiophiles continuously….the fundamentals of engineering will never change.

[@gww730]

I didn't even realize that "audiophile fuses" were even a thing. To me, power cables are the worst offenders - I've seen dozens of Hospital Grade power cords dressed up in custom housings and techflex selling for hundreds, and even thousands of dollars.

[@Roudaki677]

@@gww730 the closest legitimate, “possibly” better fuses that have UL are produced by “littelfuse”, a legitimate surge protection manufacturer and are available from Mouser, Digikey, etc. If one sees how quickly an item goes up in flames with incorrect or bad fuse during a compliance test, these fly by night fuse supplier would go out of business. Unfortunately, we support these weak products.

[@strykerking]

Came over from the 2 channel community, love the channel and approach. Building into a home theater now, your vids are really helpful.

[@cnman9743]

Thankyou for taking a "realistic " approach . You are so correct on all 5 of those points!

[@dcusator]

BJC is the only place to get cables IMHO , great prices , great customer service, and quick delivery. Great work Gene

[@s.daniel9224]

Yep. Good cable/terminals at a fair price.

[@bocrux]

Yeah, they are such an easy company to recommend. I've been buying from them for 17+ years.

[@craigboyd6600]

I co-sign for BJC!

[@chuckmaddison2924]

Hi, It's refreshing to see someone speak the truth. I believe the only benefit of fancy, expensive cable and parts is that it allows the owner to say " I've got ,i spent." Its been said before " fashion magazines only make you feel ugly "

[@davetelling]

I recall many years ago the well-known engineer for National Semiconductor, Bob Pease, had a standing offer of (I believe) $10,000 to anyone who could tell the difference between some expensive speaker cables, and pieces of random hookup wire he soldered together in an A-B test. No one ever took the challenge!

[@chrisvand2678]

You're right. The bet is still up, and it's $1million..

[@anonymousmc7727]

I took the test he paid me the 10k that autism paid off😂

[@Old_Sailor85]

Cables can definitely sound "different". Different is not necessarily better.

[@tom-nl5sj]

This couldn't have come at a better time. I just purchased a pair of Polk R700 speakers. I am moving up from Klipsch RF82-2's and even though I read not to switch the impedance setting on the Marantz SR7009, it was cool to hear Gene verify that...

[@De132an]

Love it! Thank you for these tips. Even a seasoned audiophile sometimes forgets these basics. 🙏

[@ken33935]

I think the Crutchfield "online audition" is good at hearing the sound signature difference (warm/neutral/bright), and you can verify that with the frequency response measurement, but that's about it.

[@shoujiki999]

Great breakdown Gene, always love your honest and transparent view. Greetings from Australia.

[@The-Wise-One]

Awesome Advice. Love your Spirit, Energy, Honesty! Thank you so much, your knowledge has helped me so much over the years. Wish this was my career.

[@raulgarcia1718]

Excellent summary of many of the points you’ve made over the years. The one I connected with is seeking validation after purchase. At some point I realized that I just needed to stop watching reviews and just spend the time enjoying content and getting know my gear. I took six months off KZbin and it made a big difference. Now I can watch reviews just for entertainment while I enjoy the gear I have, a lot based on Audioholics recommendations.

[@Dreamediaav]

Great topics Gene! We always appreciate your honesty and efforts to inform consumers. Thanks for sharing and keep up the great work! 😁

[@TheFrogmanTV]

So why do you sell cable risers? Do you not think it is dishonest to sell them and claim they "reduce distortion and noise, coupling capacitance in cables, effects due to electric interference fields from floors and walls." I was really disappointed to see you advocating for snake oil.

[@MK-rn2hm]

Spot on everything you said. Thank God for honest folks like Gene

[@biglew1161]

if you don't need something right-away, sometimes waiting for the next model can be a good way of getting the previous model that fit your needs for a lower price. (if it still fit your needs)

[@B4G3L5]

Hey, Gene! I'm just getting around to watching this, and I appreciate everything you discussed in the video. Though, I think the most beneficial was your last point. I'm always wanting to wait to get the next big thing, so I never pull the trigger on what I want today. You actually replied to my comment a while back, when I asked if I should buy the Onkyo RZ70 or wait for the next model, to which you advised getting the RZ70 now. I missed the sales, but I'll catch it when it comes back around. Thanks for the _sound_ advice!

[@johnshepherd708]

This is refreshing. Belden Cables via Blue Jean Cables is a very. good resource. American manufactured wire/cable professionally terminated at very reasonable prices. Belden has real engineering and is used in more studios along with Mogami than any other brand. The advice here is down to earth and accurate....thank you for your honest and accurate advice.

[@BlackCatPianist]

Many "audiophile" cables were Belden Cables with fancy jacks and sleeves.

[@graysonpeddie]

10:10 That is true. When I needed to buy a new receiver because my previous receiver (Marantz SR-5008) was damaged due to Hurricane Michael, I was contemplating whether to buy a Denon AVR-X3400H (a discontinued model) or AVR-X3500H (new model which features eARC). When I bought a Marantz SR5008, I kind of thought the amplifier is going to be better than SR5007. I was wrong and I did not have a need for 4K 30Hz feature at all. I did not know what the differences is between the SR5008 and SR5007 and I could have saved money by buying a discontinued model. If I wanted a better amplifier, I would have went with Marantz SR6007 instead, but I don't know if better amplifier in SR6007 is going to be better than SR5007 or even SR5008. Well, it's not like I'd pay double the price for an AVR that will give me 50% better sound... I think about 5 grand, perhaps the components would be a lot better, but maybe I'm wrong. Maybe I might be better off going for separates with a better amp that can drive my JBL Stage 180 floorstanding speakers. I watch movies at loud volume just to enjoy and I kind of feel like my Denon AVR-X3400H may not have the amplifier power it needs to drive my front speakers and cheap 8-ohm surround speakers. In any case, I'm better off staying with my Denon AVR-X3400H. Other than the lack of eARC (I do not need audio going from a TV to my receiver), HDMI 2.0 is more than fine for me for gaming at 4K 60Hz. Even if I go from my computer to an HDMI 2.1 audio extractor to my TV to my AVR and even if I configure my TV in PC mode and set my PC to 120Hz, I could not tell a difference between 60Hz and 120Hz. My eyes are not sensitive enough to notice a difference that's higher than 60Hz. This is especially if I play Portal 2. Maybe with sub-10 milliseconds reaction time I might be able to tell a difference between 60Hz and 120Hz, but I don't play eSports/multiplayer games anyway. Oh yeah and I do have a visual disability. I'm blind in my left eye but can still see okay with my right eye but only when I use a full-screen magnifier in my Linux PC. Visual disabilities can be a factor that can hinder the benefits of seeing 120Hz and higher.

[@markrigg6623]

Great to see the reference to psychoacoustics. Our perceptions are not just about physics, and its helpful if we remember to employ critical thinking when we make judgements on things.

[@DarrellConley-x6g]

WOW a reviewer that made sense. I really liked everthing you said. I have felt that way about cables in my system.

[@mikaelbiilmann6826]

I just bought an old (2013) Pioneer SC-LX57 from my friend. That’s good enough for me. I used to be into hi-fi and had some fine systems, but my ears are shot after too many ear infections, so I just want a system where I can hear the effects and nothing more. Got some crappy loudspeakers with it, which I am going to dampen inside just for fun, to see if there can be any improvements.

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

Great lecture, and very thorough in a shorter span of time than other reviewers on KZbin. Another thumbs up, as always. I recently bought a pair of Paradigm SE Monitor Atoms, designed, engineered in Canada. And I prefer those SE Atom bookshelf speakers, on speaker stands, more to a previous pair of Klipsch R-51Ms. Atoms SE speakers are now connected to a used Cambridge Audio AXR100 Receiver, in very good condition; I thought I'd say so for any confirmation, ha. More seriously, I believe that when interconnect cables, and speaker wire are logically considered, you are no less than 97% correct! There are audiophiles out there who may think you are 79%; however, it has more to do with a perceived Placebo Effect. If anything other than physical measurement, in terms of sound, it may not be actual subjective determination, either.The most expensive cables I have, that are actually of moderate price compared to most other brand hi fi cables, are Blue Jeans Cable, mostly made in the USA. Excellent transfer of musical signals.🔉🎵🎶

[@JohnSmith-qi6co]

The cable comments are the best. I only use the Blue Jeans cables because they aren' that much more expensive than plain zip cord when you figure in the connectors you'll need too. I like to spend that little bit more to also make sure the bananas are really REALLY well connected to the cabel. No way you are going to do that yourself the way that guy at Blue Jeans does with his equipment.

[@chrisvand2678]

It's pretty easy to solder and/or crimp the plugs by yourself, but you do you..

[@jimf5160]

very well said....and remember those who argue against blind level matched A/B/X testing are doing so, because they know that their equipment will make zero audible difference.

[@richardbixler]

Cables actually can make a difference as far as noise floor. I’m not saying they have to be expensive or anything, but it can be beneficial to twist your speaker wire and ensure they have a solid connection. In my spare room I have a decent preamp connected to a 2.1 speaker system. The sub has an RCA input with a pair of push pin speaker outs and really cheap high gauge speaker wire. I had a lot of hiss and could faintly hear radio stations. I had some 14 awg copper wire in the garage. I spent $10 for a 17’ twisted RCA cable for my record player; to go across the room. This alone made a huge difference but I still had a little bit of hiss, so I separated and twisted the speaker wire and added some cheap banana plugs with woven copper ends. The hiss is completely inaudible now, unless I put my ear directly up to the speaker. It was a fun little experiment. It really did transform the sound, but only because I’m in a small room listening in the near field at low volumes.

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

You must have an incredily high powered radio station next to your home if you can actually pick up sound from it. And the hiss is not coming from the cables, it's the amplifiers poor filter/buffer stage that creates the hiss. If you had extremely poor quality cables before, installing standard hifi-spec cables can help with impedance matching between the source and the amp, that's the only explanation scientifically I can understand how your hiss became lower...

[@richardbixler]

@@Munakas-wq3gp The included speaker cables were terrible. I’m guessing 30 AWG, not copper, probably aluminum. I know the hiss doesn’t come from the speaker wire and I never claimed that. For whatever reason they were passing more hiss to my speakers. My really expensive $10 Amazonphile grade speaker cable pretty much eliminated the hiss. As for the RF noise. That was coming through from two strung together old RCA cables I had to use to make the 10’-12’ run from my record player to the preamp. The preamp in the sub probably isn’t great. For whatever reason, the newer $10 twisted rca cable is a worse antenna than my old cable. Thems the facts, believe or don’t. You can relax, I’m not pushing exotic $10,000 Himalayan speaker cables woven from the fleece of virgin lama’s or anything. Im also not playing armchair scientists here. I’m just pointing out that really crappy dirt cheap or damaged cables or loose connections can degrade sound quality. It’s easily solved with run of the mill copper cables and or cheap banana plugs . So cables and connectors do matter, just not very much. The point of diminishing returns is very low. I only shared my experience so that people who watch this video don’t buy a pair of decent desktop speakers and stick with the crappy included cables because they think cables make NO difference. Cables SOMETIMES do make a difference. But like I said, only if they’re really really bad.

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

@@richardbixler With very long pulls cables do start to matter, for example if you have multiple active subs and you need to pull a signal 5-6 meters away. The shorter the pull, the less need there is to worry. Best cable is no cable...

[@richardbixler]

@@Munakas-wq3gp Agreed, I wish more subs and preamps came with balanced connections. Sometimes long runs are the only option. I’m not a perfectionist when it comes to sound quality, but I do have really good hearing. I’m in my mid 40’s and can still hear up to 18 khz. High frequencies really bother me. Hiss is really annoying and electronic coil whine makes me want to run out of a room.

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

@@richardbixler My late father was an electronics repairman and when I was a kid he always had 2-3 tv sets gutted open on desks. I remember how annoying the coil whine from the old tube tv sets was... Hurt ears.

[@garycard1826]

Good video. As an Electronic Technologist and life long audiophile I agree with your comments. 👍

[@johnh539]

While I have accepted your arguments regarding cables I have never the less upgraded mine. I have intentionally chosen the cheaper cables because IF there is any difference it will be between standard copper wiring and copper of a higher technical specification. My reason for upgrading my cables has been entirely to do with licking the idear of Silver (Plated) connectors' as potentially the week point in any circuit is in your 'Plugs' (Connection points). Although I watch a lot of Hify videos I turn off listening videos. Through which speakers am I supposed to listen for subtle sonic differences, my mobile phone ,my lap top, my TV, or my full sound system that even side by side would be different to theirs? Even the best recordings they want us to listen to sound dreadful next to me listening direct to the same recordings. Adding a quality (Not expensive) linear Power supply to my streamer was the biggest single improvement in my sound that came after all the rest but took my sound to another level. Question ? My Integrated balanced Tube Amp has a high and low output gain setting that I understand you chose between depending on if you are using EL34 Tubes or KT88 ones. My Speakers are 6 Ohm rated and are %89.9 efficient (Is it?) so I'm hoping you will agree with me that I can just leave my gain to high? All the best ,thanks.

[@CoolJay77]

Besides the visual factor that you have mentioned, when you feel a bit chilly in the room, you might feel that your system does not sound as warm as when your body feels somewhat warm. There are psychological and physiological factors that often affect our perception of a sound systems.

[@ronbrock738]

FINALLY, I have found 2 audio channels that I can enjoy the content. Your channel and Erin's are my chosen ones. There are too many reasons that I like Erin's and your channel much more than any others, but here is one. It appears that you both recognize that in the end, choices of what sounds good is purely subjective. Measurements, analogous terms to describe sound (warm, bright, etc) , mean little to me. In my room, how do I like it, is everything. Thank you. I look forward to watching your past and future videos.

[@StopAndGetGas]

All of your points are (adjective) sage and sane advice! Dedicated senior-aged two (2) channel-er here. My upper range hearing dissolves into my tinnitus at about 8.7-9K, depending upon SPL. Before suspending my hifi habit almost 30 years ago, Monster speaker cable was about as far as I had ever gone into 'boutique' wiring (giant zip cord). I was a journeyman broadcast engineer (AM/FM radio) 'techie' back in those days, always with a focus on 'value' (...money has ALWAYS "...been an object"). The well established, secondary market for 'pre-owned' components is a rich landscape if you're nerdy and have the time to investigate, compare and shop on line. After starting back up a few years ago, I now have a couple of beautiful, premium pieces in my system (Hegel, McIntosh) that were WAY out of reach when they were the "...newest, latest and greatest". And again, this video offers great advice and value, too! Thank you.

[@patricklixudong]

Great review, particularly the point regarding to cable. My experience, the best option to uplifting sound experience is to add super woofer. European brand Piega launched a very expense SPEAKER - it contains two tower-speakers - one is base, one is mid-hi.

[@mfkhometheater7742]

I've said it before, cables do make a difference... a negative difference to the pocketbooks of the people that buy them and a positive difference to the pocketbooks of the people that sell them. That's pretty much the only measurable difference. Great video, you are very much correct on all items mentioned.

[@Munakas-wq3gp]

If you have low impedance speakers and long cables, you will get treble attenuation with small diameter cables. But that can be very cheaply fixed by getting 4-6mm2 speaker cables, no need for exotic things. Of course some people have OCD and their brain would melt if they didn't have fancy gold connectors and wrist thick cables sitting on 'dampening blocks' lol. But that has nothing to do with actual sound.

[@russpawis4055]

My gf bought me a Yamaha VX-4A ? AVR...will it work with the ELAC DEBUT 3 speakers I bought, along with an AUDIO PRO SW-10 sub...in a 2.1 setup?

[@xTremeSequences]

I couldn't agree more about the cables. Years ago I purchase Acoustic Zen cables which are thick and my SVS cables sound just as good. I am one of those that recently purchased the Marantz AV10 and AMP10. I like them both. I wish the AMP 10 ran a little cooler as it keeps my AC Afinity running a lot to keep it at 85F. But, I am biamping my LRC channels so maybe that is making it work harder. Thanks for the video.

[@jazzkatt7083]

I have the Home Depot speaker zip cord cables and I get tons of detail from my setup. I recently improved vta and got even more impressive sound and I’ve heard fancy cables at shows. I’m good

[@Clint_the_Audio-Photo_Guy]

Lot of good points. As an audio salesman of 20 years now, I can attest people are always waiting on new technology. I tell them, if you're waiting on technology, you'll be waiting forever. Whenever anything new is coming, the previous version is now junk, and the new one is the answer to all their hopes and dreams. This is just not true. Purchase validation is a very real thing too. What annoys me on forums is the people who immediately try to tear down their choices. "You could have got TWICE the performance for HALF the money!" ect. I see comments like that all the time. It's so beyond rude.

[@davidcotter4556]

All of your content & reviews are absolutely Great. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@bikdav]

I was concerned about the impedance switch issue. Thank you for mentioning this. My speakers are 4 ohms and my receiver was left at 8 ohms. Nothing complained or blew up in my system.

[@jeffsloane8628]

I can be critical of Gene on some topics. I’m 100% in alignment with him on this one.

[@mikemmikem2758]

Excellent and very truthful common sense (as usual from you) video. Here's an old one for you harkening back to the arrival of the CD. Putting green magic marker on the edges to increase fidelity.

[@DigbyOdel-et3xx]

Agreed. I actually tried this on some of my CD's in the 90's. Yeah, yeah the power of persuasion is high. That said it cost next to nothing and did not damage the CD's. It did give the placebo effect though. So for the while I messed around doing such it felt good. It's like people who buy and use esoteric car polish/wax on their cars. They feel they get a better polish/wax job than using lower cost choices. I have tried the fancier polish/wax on my cars and honestly have found using the good ole orange bottle of Nu Finish gives me excellent results and is easy to use as well as less costly.🤔

[@danlah1303]

Good stuff Gene! The old PC buying advice rings true for any tech: Buy the best that you can afford when you need it. No matter how long you wait, there will always be the next big thing right around the corner.

[@suppiahadnan6776]

Hi... thank you for your sincere advice. Coming from you, it is certainly creditble and I do hope many of those so called "audiophiles" out there and newbies to this hobby, do take heed of this valuable advise from Gene, someone who is certainly qualified, unlike many other "experts" who make nonsensical claims that's beyond common sense. Thank you, Gene.

[@edsonmenini1570]

I have found out that the whole music experience sounds a lot better when you are with friends drinking wine! That alone enhances everything much more than you can imagine 😀😀😀

[@norbac]

I'm guilty of listening to youtube video demos before I bought my Klipsch RF-8000 II speakers. There's an influencer from South African who demoed those speakers by comparing them with Polks and other brands. In the end though, I'm very pleased with my Klipsch. They do sound awesome! But I do have to agree with Gene on those four other mistakes. Thanks Gene!

[@claudecabeza9263]

Late to the party, I have a Marantz Sr6011 AVR with 4 ohm M&K speakers, you are saying I should set AVR to 8 ohms?

[@howardskeivys4184]

Another excellent video, which is no more than I’d expect from Audioholics. I’m 100% behind you on all 5 points particularly your point about cables. I’ve always held the opinions and advice of Audioholics in high regard. Not so much the opinions and attitude of Jay, whom you’ve recently taken into your hearts and given high praises to. So, here’s where the grey area starts to emerge. Jay has also been taken into the heart of Danny from GR research, who has also sung Jay’s praises and together they’ve collaborated to convince more gullible audiophiles that cables do make an audible difference. This is why there is confusion and division amongst audiophiles. When they get conflicting views and advice from a conglomerate of reviewers, how do they differentiate fact from opinion, truth from subjective bias.

[@JamesBigham-v6b]

Have u tried high end cables?

[@howardskeivys4184]

@@JamesBigham-v6b I am aware that cables can make a difference. I believe you have to be price appropriate with your cable choice. If you’ve invested 1800 in your amplification and 2500 on speakers, there will be no virtue in investing 2000 on cables.you would not remove the cable that connects your 40 watt bedside lamp to the wall socket and use it to connect your 1.5kw heater to the wall socket, would you? But, you could use the cable that connects that heater to the mains outlet to connect your bedside lamp to the wall socket. It would not however, cause the lamp to perform any better. All that having been said. I was browsing through my local bricks & mortar hi-fi store, one sunny Saturday afternoon last September. They were having a closing down sale. Their third that summer. I noted they had a ‘high end’ mains cable reduced from 5000 to 1000. I bought it on a wim. Well truthfully, I bought it on my Amex platinum card. When I got it home, my wife noticed the price. 2 weeks later, when I was discharged from hospital, I used that cable to connect my 1800 spin speed washing machine to the mains outlet. The difference was phenomenal. The water in the machine heats to the desired temperature 0.00097 seconds faster. I calculate that if I keep that machine for 17004 years, the cable will have paid for itself. Also, now, when that machine reaches its full 1800rpm spin speed, it no longer dances around my utility room. I attribute that to the cable’s binding qualities, not its electrical properties. But, as you’re doubtless aware, life is never that simple. For every action there are consequences. My hi-fi is now a lot clearer, has a much darker noise floor. Mainly because it’s no longer being drowned out by that 1800 spin speed washing machine. The caveat, because there is always a caveat. My teenage daughter used to derive great pleasure from sitting astride that machine when it reached full spin speed. That damned high end cable has denied her that basic primal pleasure. However, it has drastically reduced the frequency we need to use the machine. Because of the much smoother spin the amount of lingerie my teenage daughter gets thru has been substantially reduced.anyways, regardless of your esoteric choice of hi-fi purchase, or opinion, most importantly, enjoy the music.

[@andreyutzuu]

Yamaha R-N800A is working ok with Wharfedale EVO 4.2? Thank you

[@AD-zz1fr]

Does different cable length between speaker sets matter? I.e different lengths between front L & R channels. What about when you Bi-amp? Do all cables need to be the same length? Cheers

[@Audioholics]

@@AD-zz1fr read this: www.audioholics.com/audio-video-cables/speaker-cable-length-differences-do-they-matter

[@AD-zz1fr]

@Audioholics Awesome! Thanks heaps.

[@BTCKYLE]

Happy I found your channel. Going to dig in and figure out the best way to setup my Cinema 60 AVR to my LCR Martin Logan XT line. Thx man!

[@davemoritz2174]

If your happy with how your system looks and sounds then be happy with what you have! Your system only needs to make you happy and no one else!

[@kensmith5694]

Yes, and listen to some music. That is what it is for.

[@bensaven5151]

Should I still leave it on the 8 homes setting if I'm using nothing but power amps and I have my denon 4700h receiver set to all power amps off?

[@Artcore103]

Literally does not matter at all in that case.

[@Roddy451]

BJC... Approved, and great service to boot.

[@rovd4433]

Thank you bro. As a low level audiophile, I was a bit hung-on on cable quality. This was because of many audio folks comments on KZbin which made me to condemn audio copper cables sold at my local DIY store. An experience audio technician told me that my DIY store cables were no different from the expensive ones. And that he has used them in his system.

[@jimhibert]

“The technology is already mature “. Yeh, since 1970! Great video, you speak the truth!

[@imnoone492]

I agree 100%. I attended CES shows in the 90’s seeing items such as $3000.00 a foot Oxygen free cables, $50.000 turntables and not hearing very much difference in the lower cost systems.

[@sweetrc10]

Hey Gene! I have always taken your advice on the impedance selector switch, and set my Yamaha A-S501 to 8ohm accordingly. The question I have is on the other end - do I plug the speaker cables into the 4ohm or 8ohm slot on the back of my speakers? I have been using the 4ohm binding posts as opposed to the 8ohm (again 8ohm on the receiver) hoping for the best sound. See any issues with that? Or am I better off in any way by plugging into the 8ohm binding posts instead. Doubt it matters, but I have the Arendal 1723S Towers (also in large part per yours and James Larson's recommendation haha).

[@Audioholics]

I never heard of 4 ohm or 8 ohm binding post on a speaker. You must be confusing it with biamp/biwiring. Keep the jumpers in place and do a single wire connection. If the jumpers are in place, your amp sees the entire speaker which in this case should be around 4 ohms nominal.

[@perrysmiles60]

@@Audioholics In this case, does it matter what posts you connect to, meaning the top or bottom ones..?

[@Audioholics]

@@perrysmiles60 not if they are jumpered.

[@armylrs2391]

Once you get a great calibration be happy with it and be wise enough to leave well enough alone. When that feeling creeps in telling you that you might be able to make it just a bit better, ignore it. In the end you'll be kicking yourself because you can never get it to sound quite as good again.

[@davidjudd951]

The stereo in my car improved dramatically, when I removed the Fur Dice from the inside rear view mirror.

[@BriBCG]

I do enjoy listening to KZbin speaker comparisons that switch between a couple sets of speakers and direct playback. Sure, you aren't ever going to get an accurate representation of the speakers, but you can pick up on some of the differences between the two sets and your own.

[@Audioholics]

those differences have little to no basis in reality on the performance of the speakers.

[@BriBCG]

@@Audioholics I agree it's mostly frivolous, but are the tonal characteristics not a component of the 'performance'? You can certainly tell if one speaker dips down lower than the other, or if it leans towards being bright sounding in comparison. I would never use it as a serious tool to make a decision, but it's a good bit of fun and I don't think it's fair to say you can't gain any information at all from it. I mean if you want to nitpick auditioning a speaker anywhere but where you intend to put it also would significantly change it's performance characteristics.

[@hanksta34]

What about installing a dedicated “mains” circuit for your lower to middle range quality system? Is it Worth it? Marantz 2250 Kenwood KD-5070 Sansui E-88 EQ KLH Kendall 96 dB tower speakers

[@willbrink]

My minimal review vids have gotten some criticisms I didn't offer a demo on the vid. Ugh...

[@CeeCee-ot1kl]

Hi Gene. I have a Marantz SR6015 5.1.4 setup and wanted to know if its worth watching bluray atmos movies in Pure Direct mode? Trying to understand the benefits of Pure Direct mode.

[@rwilcox_71]

I love the point you touched upon in regards to the look of equipment or your space!

[@bensaven5151]

If I'm using pre amplifier mode is it okay to turn it to 4 ohms so my amplifiers won't be running idle at a higher power?

[@bensaven5151]

This is a absolutely great question. Can some one answer it for me please?

[@Artcore103]

Will not make a difference. But some AVRs let you disable the power amps if you're not using them, if you can do that do that. But the ohm switch will have zero affect except, as gene explains, limiting the amps maximum output - which you're not running into at all.

[@brooklynknightss]

Especially speakers!!i have speakers 32 years old and still sound fantastic!! Def tech BP20s !!

[@Chayim55]

What if my speakers are 4 ohms rated front and AV is switch to 4 ohms? Will it damage the speaker or amp? My AV is Onkyo TX-NR575e. I have mixed speaker 4 ohm front, 8 ohms center, 8 ohms surround. What should my AVR ohm setting be? Thanks Gene for your reply.

[@frommatorav1]

From watching his other video, just set the AV to 8 ohms. He said to do that even they were all 4 ohm but especially if they're mixed.

[@Chayim55]

@@frommatorav1Thanks you. My understanding was confirmed. Will do, cheers mate!

[@SteveP-n7r]

All 5 points make sense Gene. You are right about listening via KZbin over the web...however, unless you live in a market where audio products are plentiful, it's difficult to compare. KZbin becomes the default comparison tool, limited as it is. I thought about buying 2 different speakers to room test, knowing that I could send one or both back. Don't trust that process enough for full refund and shipping.

[@Audioholics]

Trust the process of manufacturer return policy EVERY time over a KZbin listening test. Reputable companies like SVS, Arendal Sound and others don't mess around.

[@duprie37]

The only thing I really disagree with is speaker demos. Of course you're not going to get an accurate representation, but what you do get is an idea, an inclination. I know the reference sound of the speakers I'm using to watch the demo and believe I'm familiar enough with them (whether it's my high ends, my soundbar or just my phone speakers) to compensate for that to get, not a precise, but still a useful ballpark sense of what this speaker will sound like. If nothing else, it scratches an itch for most people. Just demo the dam things, it doesn't hurt anyone.

[@SCAudiophile]

@Audioholics Gene, does your testing result and advice regarding the low impedance selector switch also apply to 4-ohm and other low impedance taps on tube amps?

[@Beyondabsence]

Thank you! Wondering if buying an Iris DDC to pair with my DENAFRIPS ARES 12th DAC will give me an even better sound quality. I get mixed feedback. Wondering if any of you think its worth the $500 US? Os a DDC separate box also a myth?

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

Save your money ...

[@paulhalucha526]

Great video. For me it is largely aesthetics once you get to a certain price point. I love looking at my Mcintosh system as much as I love listening to it. Fell in love with the look of LS-100 Classics before I ever heard them.

[@CORVUSMAXYMUS]

Yes trust in your INFORMATION that you search not from amateur.

[@vasiliosvavasis]

The impedance on a Yamaha receiver can be adjusted within the secret menu on startup. I have six ohm speakers so I set the receiver up for six ohms. I did play around with eight ohms, the speakers I have are Yamaha Ns-777 which are rated for six ohms. People do say , you can damage your speakers. Is this true?

[@Audioholics]

Watch my video on the topic. I couldn't be more clear.

[@vasiliosvavasis]

Wow what a difference. No need to upgrade amplifier for more power. Thank you a little reassurance goes a long way. It woke up my speakers. I quickly Recalibrated speakers 75db in seating position at reference level 0.0db. I was Listening to, Tool - Pneuma I hit 105 db just above reference in room The sound is extremely sharp and precise the bass is tight extremely tight blown me away. It has friend approval:)

[@boardertrashtv8638]

Top job Gene, I’m glad I found this channel a few years ago, it’s saved me hundreds of ££ and worry concerning cables. I just wish the rest of the audiophile online community would see sense but then I guess that’s marketing for you 🤷🏼

[@tenehaglendening9246]

Is 12g monoprice cable for in wall sufficient or should I use 10g. I'm in the middle of room rebuild. If 10 is a decent amount better. I will try to get some before wire is installed. Thanks in advance

[@Artcore103]

Completely depends on the length of the run and potentially the amount of current (or watts) you're actually going to be running. It probably does not matter. There are online calculators for cable length and gauge and the resulting resistance, and how that affects damping factor and thus frequency response. It's very minor unless you're getting extreme.

[@fredalmgren7211]

I think one point is that what you are streaming and the quality of streaming can make you question if your gear is performing as well as it should. How far do you go with the quality of DA converters and how does it really impact what you are hearing or is it just messing with your ears.

[@Audioholics]

If you're using the DACs in a high end AVR or Pre/Pro, there's no reason to purchase an external DAC.

[@AnthonyToth-t5v]

Lower the ohmage higher the voltage Transistors work on high current low voltage Valve amplifiers run on high voltage very low current

[@MangoZen]

My favorite that drives me nuts is indeed sound clips on KZbin. There are audiophile channels where the KZbinr has spent thousands of $ in microphones and dummy heads.😂 I’m a retired electrical engineer, yet The one area where I diverge a bit from you is cables. You put so much focus on the measurements, whereas I focus on how they sound in my system. Mind you, I bought a pair of somewhat inexpensive Nordost flatlines 20 years ago and never looked back. Thanks for your videos, Gene. You do a great job.

[@Delius1958]

Thank you for this excellent video! - Thirty years ago I suddenly had enough money to buy a decent audio system. The first weeks of listening were very disappointing. I thought: Okay, let‘s get these suckers to work! A nice preoccupation on the horizon. I did what could be done: cared for good electricity, bought good speaker cabels and rca cabels (yes, I did!), used vibration absorbers for all the components etc. And you know what?: Every step increased the sound quality ( I swear!). And these very components are playing for me up to now, every single day. I don‘t have any interest in new stuff, I LOVE these fellas. Perhaps there may be some psychology mixing in the listening experience, but many people said the sound was not recognizable to what it was before. So: I strongly believe you CAN achieve some good results with cables and other stuff, but you have to try and try, some fit, others don’t. And it‘s much fun and doesn’t have to be expensive. I‘ve never had the money for high end things, it‘s just decent hifi. - Thanks again for the video and greetings from Berlin, Harry

[@Chrisspru]

in my experience, there are a few tweaks that work: - acousticaly treating your room - decoupling the speakers from the floor/ the shelves while firmly rooting them in place ( heavy cushioned feet) - making sure your room has fresh air ( for enjoyment and mental presence) - making sure your room is clean ( for enjoyment and no bodily stress) - make sure your room is aesthetic to just be in for you. better mood baseline. - make sure your listening spot is confortable and feels safe & controlable. - have interesting and pleasent interactive things in the room you enjoy. so its a good general place, not just an audio place. - care for your general health, fitness, well being, good direction and hearing health. - have things organized in general. - get enough sleep, extra if possible. - have a stocked pantry, gas in the tank, water in the fridge and some cash on the side. knowing you have time in case makes for a chill life. - get something nice to drink or other measured treat to enjoy while listening.

[@Chrisspru]

a depressing room, living on edge more than necessary, being in artificialy worse health and bad air can ruin any listening experience.

[@EnricoAnsaloni]

Always wise words from you Gene, thanks! The thing that pisses me off the most are really expensive cables. I always try to reason with cable lovers, trying to explain that their ears cannot be more sensitive than lab equipment and that they can't hear any difference but it's a lost cause

[@pnichols6500]

There are a few brands that have very reasonably priced cables that are just as nice looking as the expensive ones, I'll spend a few bucks for something that visually looks nicer just because it makes my system look more expensive than it is and makes me happy.

[@EnricoAnsaloni]

@@pnichols6500 of course... I have no argument against someone choosing more expensive cables for aesthetics, that's a perfectly valid reason (if you don't go crazy with the price) especially if you already have a nice looking and expensive setup. My issue is with people that say they can hear a difference over quality but reasonably priced cables like mogami or monoprice

[@dougrobinson8602]

@@pnichols6500 I like nice cables, too. Not esoteric overpriced ones. Just nice looking well made cables with good terminating hardware. Years ago, I bought a huge bulk roll of very high quality speaker cable and bought some nice connectors to make my own cables the perfect length for my room. I didn't do it for sound as much as I did it because I enjoy making my own stuff. They look nice and sound almost as good as zipcord.

[@RodneyAllanPoe]

Hey what's your view on oxidation on connectors? Does this affect conductivity enough to be audible? And if so, where would it be more crucial...interconnects, power plugs or speaker cables? Thanks.

[@Audioholics]

oxidation increases contact resistance and can affect performance in a negative way. Stick with quality pure copper cables and connectors from reputable brands and this shouldn't be a problem. (ie. Mogami, Bluejeans cable, tributaries, Kimber, etc).

[@RodneyAllanPoe]

@@Audioholics Thank you. I wonder if this partly explains why an upgraded cable sounds "better" than an old cable that's been plugged in for years?