PDA

View Full Version : Short USB cable and long interconnects or long USB and short interconnects


Pegwill
20-06-2019, 17:37
Hi Guys

I think the above explains it all. I currently have my DAC close to the amp and use short interconnects, my laptop is at least 2.5m away from the DAC. I could move it round with a bit of effort. But thought I’d ask the question first so long USB cable and short interconnects or the other way round. What will give best quality?

Many thanks

Regards

Bill
Smegger68
22-06-2019, 11:18
2.5m? I doubt you'd hear any difference at all quite honestly. USB is designed to work up to 5m and then MAY require active repeaters to maintain a connection, but good quality line level RCA cables should be good for 5 to 10m. YMMV as usual.
Yomanze
22-06-2019, 18:26
Long USB cable will be cheaper, and more convenient. At these lengths nothing to worry about sonically.
struth
22-06-2019, 18:32
Usb is usually good for 5m. 10 with a repeater cable. I used to use a 10m with repeater in middle a lot and there is no degradation that I can hear. Not overly expensive either.
alphaGT
22-06-2019, 19:53
What kind of USB cable are you using? Just a standard computer store type? Or one claiming to be for audio use? A better cable MAY make a difference, or it may be hardly noticeable. They do come in all prices, perhaps an entry level USB for audio cable would be worth an experiment, like those made by Audioquest, but I wouldn’t spend any more than would hurt your feelings if it didn’t make a difference.

Russell
Bourneendboy
23-06-2019, 07:08
Try a Lindy USB cable - quality cable at a good price!
Pegwill
23-06-2019, 10:34
Hi Guys
I’m using a Belkin Gold series cable. I’ve had it for some time now, it was well thought of when it first came out. It was said that it was good value for money performance wise, probably could be bettered now though. I think it is now discontinued.
Spectral Morn
24-06-2019, 10:28
Hi Guys
I’m using a Belkin Gold series cable. I’ve had it for some time now, it was well thought of when it first came out. It was said that it was good value for money performance wise, probably could be bettered now though. I think it is now discontinued.

The Belkin is an ok starter cable, but having done comparisons with Wire World USBs I did hear a difference, between them, with the Wire Worlds being better. I haven't played with other audiophile USB cables, but I would assume there will be differences, and improvements to be had there too.

I use up to 2m with no issue, not tried longer.
Yomanze
24-06-2019, 14:29
Try a Lindy USB cable - quality cable at a good price!

+1 :)