Why is BS Cable Better?

November 20, 2017

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by Paul McGowan

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Understanding the Relevance of Shielding in Audiophile Cables

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"It is unfortunately common for audiophiles to misunderstand the importance of shielding. For audio signals, whether from speakers or interconnects, these are predominantly low-frequency magnetic signals rather than electric fields. Although all electromagnetic waves consist of electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields, the properties of low-frequency magnetic signals differ substantially from those of the electric fields, influencing interaction and cancellation behaviors. Magnetic waves decay at a ratio of 1/x^3, so it is essential to separate cables, especially those carrying large currents like speaker cables. In contrast, interconnect cables carry the same frequencies but much smaller currents, resulting in far smaller magnetic fields that are still magnetic in nature. Shielding with foils and braids is designed for high-frequency electric fields, such as EMI and RFI, primarily above 1 MHz. Digital cables often emit EMI/RFI, necessitating shielding, but for audio, speaker cables do not require shielding since they are dominated by robust magnetic fields that overcome terrestrial interferences. Speaker cables employ low-impedance configurations that essentially ignore electromagnetic noise due to their strong magnetic fields. Effective shielding for magnetic fields requires low-permeability materials rather than typical electrical conduits, which are designed for fire safety or grounding electric fields. At higher frequencies, materials that transition to low-permeability coverings for electric fields, including conductive braids and foils, are necessary."

Explore more on this subject with a video we've prepared, which is less technical but equally insightful.

There will be additional updates coming soon. Curious why we're so certain that we can hear the differences in polarity, MQA versus non-MQA, or between CD and vinyl, yet remain skeptical about the significance of audio cables? This skepticism doesn't apply to other accepted phenomena, like the spherical nature of the Earth or the existence of stars as suns, which we accept based on trust. For audio cables, the resistance comes from entrenched views and fear of ridicule.

People like James Randi, despite lacking formal scientific credentials (he was a magician), challenge these beliefs to make a name for themselves. Conversely, experts in the field who present engineering evidence supporting audiophile observations, like Galen Gareis from Belden Cables, face substantial pushback. Gareis meticulously documents the science behind cable characteristics, aiming to educate and change minds, but the task is uphill. Alongside Copper Magazine's editor, Bill Leebens, I am dedicated to distilling and simplifying these technical insights for broader understanding. Here’s a glimpse into Galen's in-depth research, which we plan to present more accessibly in our future publications.

Evidence Through Measurements: Are Expensive Speaker Cables Worth It?

The debate surrounding the value of high-end speaker cables often misses a critical point: the importance of testing conditions. While some dismiss the relevance of double-blind tests, the core issue lies in the listening experience itself. High-quality materials and construction contribute significantly to this experience. Marketing claims about the use of precious metals, if legal, may not be as profit-driven as their high prices suggest but rather about enhancing performance.

Though it may seem foolish to some, understanding the intricate details and the science behind audio cables can significantly impact your listening experience. For those eager to delve deeper into the intricacies of BS cables and their advantages, BS Cable.