Hi Kingfrog

Don’t know what Audiophiles you mix with, but over here we go for faithful to the original, using our ears to directly compare products with real instruments and sounds. (Specs are only used to see if the size is right, and the product has the features required)

As to cables then I and all that concentrate on the music totally agree with you, that providing you have a good quality set of cables, (They fit the sockets properly, have corrosion resistant connectors and have good quality core and screen ) you will be fine. (Buying over the top cables is just a waste of money)

BTW over here Monster cables are sold in discount stores and if you give the salesperson a little nudge, they will normally throw in a set for free with your audio/home cinema purchase, so you might as well use them.

As to studio mixing speakers, then you will find all the top studios have a selection from small right up to large, (Budget to TOTL) so that they can balance the sound to suit all.

Regards

Bill