USB cable comparisons

[MarkusBarkus]

@manueljenkinI have used the Lush^3 USB cables, and I liked them. I changed the shield configuration a few times, and I did hear some differences in detail, but I'm not one to constantly change things like that, so I left it in the last configuration for the remainder of its time. 
 

I actually had two of them: into and out of a Phoenix USB "reclocker." I recently sold both cables and the Phoenix---only due to adding some new gear. I liked that stuff very much. Excellent detail.
 

Here is my only cautionary advice: they are very stiff, due to the multiple shield construction. I consider this a characteristic, not a fault, but when integrating them into your system, please consider that point. And 40 cm is shorrrrrt! 
 

Regarding your actual question of comparison, I currently have a Straightwire USB in place, and it sounds good. No obvious degradation from the Lush.

 

I just recently removed an unshielded TWL cable as I heard a very high-pitched whine at times, going directly into the Dave. Different cable, no whine.
 

I plan to check some Shunyata options, but have not yet done so. IMO Shunyata cables are very good and well made. Good Luck!

[MarkusBarkus]

@manueljenkin et al: To up the ante on this discussion a bit, I just finished a USB test using Shunyata's Omega USB.
 

I had a very limited opportunity to borrow one for a demo. This is a $3,500.00 USB cable (plus 5K retainer for the divorce attorney), so stop reading now or grab your air-distress bag if you get queasy during take-off and landing. 

I listened in two systems (actually, I'm still listening at home), one a friend's Benchmark Audio system on Monitor Audio speakers, and my own.

 

In both systems, adding the cable yielded an audible change. IMO it was also a net-positive change. My friend agrees about his system (he did not hear mine).
 

More separation among instruments. More momentum and drive to the music. Increased liveliness. Very nice.

Time to rewatch Ocean's 11 for tips on planning a casino heist. <Joke>

[MarkusBarkus]

@richard_crl032 very nice looking set-up. What footers are you using under the Salon2s? Cheers...

Mark

[MarkusBarkus]

9 hours ago, richard_crl032 said:

Hence my guideline of 20% total cost my system being the complete cabling setup .. powercord, digital and analog interconnects as well as speaker cables.

...that's about right, I'd say. 20-25%.