If my previous two articles on hi-fi separates have inspired you to pick up some equipment, the next question to ask is: how do I link it all up? The area of wiring is the most myth-filled and lie-ridden parts of hi-fi - fanatical show-offs often boast of $300 interconnects and $50 per metre speaker cables. Before you get intimidated by the figures, the same rule applies for wiring as for other hi-fi stuff - you get more if you pay more, but there are perfectly adequate equipment that costs much less!

Hi-fi wiring can be categorized into two types: interconnects and speaker cables. Interconnects (also known as interlinks) join the source to the amplifier, while speaker cables link the amplifier to the speakers. My advice to those just starting out in hi-fi is to use the plain-looking interconnects that came with the source (e.g. the CD player). Borrow speaker cables from a friend if possible. Ask around - hi-fi enthusiasts are usually friendly and helpful (especially if you lend them a couple of CDs in exchange). It is always to your advantage to try out as many types of interconnects and speaker cables as possible across a wide price range. If you really cannot borrow speaker cables from someone, you may consider buying the cheapest oxygen-free copper (OFC) cable from the electrical section of a department store. Hi-fi shops also sell the QED 79-strand cable for about $2 per metre.

Listening to your system with the cheapest wiring gives you a good baseline to work with when considering upgrading your wiring. You will soon realize that even the cheapest interconnects will improve sound quality rather dramatically. The following recommendations are not etched in stone - listen to them and decide whether you are willing to fork out the cost. Nordost Magic-1 interconnects are available at Margil in the Adelphi for about $60, and it is a cheap way to get better sound. The Kimber PBJ ($70 for 0.5m, $90 for 1m) is a good buy, and it can be found at Atlas in Plaza Singapura. The Cable Talk Monitor 2 is rated highly by critics, and can be found at most shops for $100. Audioquest has a popular line of interconnects, and the Quartz ($150) is justifiably famous for its clear, articulate sound.

For speaker cables, QED sells a popular Qudos cable ($4/m) that gives clear and defined sound, while the Cable Talk Talk 3 ($4/m) provides a fuller bass. For those who wish to go to the limit, the Nordost Flatline ($45/m) will empty you pockets in exchange for a sense of space and clarity that has to be heard to be believed.

Finally, if your speakers can be biwired, using biwired cables will most probably give you better sound. Once you have chosen and bought cables that you have decided to use for the long term, it is a good idea to terminate them with banana plugs (approach your hi-fi dealer). Lastly, buy interconnects and cables as short as possible, given the physical arrangement of your equipment. The signal degradation will be lessened, improving your sound and listening pleasure.

Isaak Koh (art30160@nus.sg) is currently exploring the symphonies of Sibelius, and is looking for a set of Sibelius stamps.