Conduct personal tests of audio and video cables

When shopping for AV cables, always try to use a double-blind ABX test. To do this, ask a salesperson to set up 2 identical audio or video systems using different cables. Use an A/B switch, or a toggle, to turn 1 on and the other off in turn without knowing whether A or B uses the expensive cables.

I recommend: Make a homemade ABX system as described in Elliott Sound Products' Project ABX. To turn your computer into a ABX test site, visit PC ABX, which offers the source code for Unix systems or LinABX,a download.

Utilize reputable reviewers of AV cables and associated equipment

Some AV equipment review magazines have the reputation of pushing equipment whose benefits have little basis in the laws of physics or that are heavily advertised in their pages. If the reviews seem absurd or pander to advertisers, don't trust them

I recommend: Check out the results of The Consumerists' experiment, "Do Coat Hangers Sound As Good As Monster Cables." Read Don Lindich’s Sound Advice Blog offers advice on purchasing cables and avoiding scams.

Scour the AV cables bargain gathering websites

If you feel you need an expensive component and you are convinced that the claims for its capabilities are genuine, be sure to compare comments and prices across a few sites.

I recommend: Use Dealio.com, which offers a friendly interface to search for bargains and filter your searches. Cyberguys.com uses an interface that allows filtering and customizing the layout.