The Great Audiophile Cable Experiment: Bananas, Mud, and Sound Quality

In a provocative experiment conducted by Pano, a moderator on the audiophile forum diyAudio, the long-standing debate over the necessity of high-quality audio cables was put to the test. The experiment involved running high-quality audio through various unconventional conductors, including pro audio copper wire, unripe bananas, old microphone cables soldered to pennies, and even wet mud. Participants were challenged to identify the differences in sound quality between these mediums.

FuturismAudiophiles! What's the difference between mud, a banana and audio cables?

The results of the blind test revealed that listeners struggled to distinguish between the different conductors. Out of 43 guesses, only six were correct, indicating that the perceived differences in sound quality were negligible. Pano noted, “The amazing thing is how much alike these files sound,” highlighting that even the mud, which one might expect to produce poor audio quality, did not significantly alter the sound. The findings suggest that the material of the conductor does not greatly impact audio reproduction for short distances.

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The underlying principle of the experiment is rooted in physics. Over short distances, even poor conductors can transmit line-level analogue signals without introducing enough resistance, capacitance, or inductance to affect the frequency response within the audible range of 20Hz to 20kHz. Michael, a retired audio engineer and another moderator on diyAudio, emphasized that the differences in frequency response measurements among the tested materials were virtually identical, with most showing a flat response.

Audiophiles! What's the difference between mud, a banana and audio cables?

The implications of this experiment challenge the marketing claims of high-end cable manufacturers. Pano suggested that what truly matters for interconnects is the DC resistance and shielding, rather than the material of the conductor itself. He stated, “You don’t need oxygen-free copper or 99.999999 percent pure silver… Good old copper wire does the job.” This perspective has resonated with many in the audiophile community, leading to humorous comments about replacing expensive cables with bananas or mud.

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Despite the experiment's findings, it is important to note that the test focused solely on short-run, line-level interconnects. Michael cautioned that speaker cables, which handle high-current applications, require proper gauge and low resistance to avoid issues such as impedance mismatches or overheating amplifiers. Additionally, over longer distances, the characteristics of cables become more significant, potentially affecting sound quality.

Audiophiles! What's the difference between mud, a banana and audio cables?

The experiment conducted by Pano and Michael serves as a compelling reminder that the perceived value of high-end audio cables may not be justified. For typical desk setups, a well-made, properly shielded cable suffices, suggesting that audiophiles may reconsider their investments in expensive cables. As the debate continues, this experiment has sparked discussions and laughter within the community, challenging conventional wisdom about audio quality and equipment.

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