This may sound like an anal question(or not)
but are there any considerations when buying patch cables(to hook pedal effects)? Are they all pretty much the same or are there differences? If anyone does have preferences, I would appreciate hearing them.

They are not all the same...do yourself and your tone a favor and buy the best patch cables you can afford. The cheap0 cables don't have good shielding and will add noise to your signal. GeorgeLs are the best for me. They are easy to work with and sound great...

DITTO !

There's a world of difference....

George's L are highly recommended by many(so much I might consider them for my in progress pedalboard)

I usually use nothing but Mogami cables, but might check out George's L from reading so much good thing about them.

The thing I like most about the GeorgeLs is that the coneections do not require soldering, not even wire stripping. Don't know exactly how it works, but you just insert the open cable end into the socket and screw down the cap. You can cut the lengths exactly to your spec. Just watch out for periodic loosening. If you tighten it enough the first time it shouldn't come loose. The smaller diameter cable is ideal between effects, lower profile and more flexible. There is an effect kit that has the hardware and cable to connect 5 effects. I think you may really enjoy these...Rock on!

the only problem you'll have with George L's cables are the ends loosening. This isn't a big deal, unless you fly somewhere(and have to check your pedalboard).

Cuz the ends WILL loosen

I heard the ends break easy is that true or?
Rai www.SimpLe168.com

I've been using them for years ( in town - traveling , etc . ) and the only one that ever came loose was the one I keep in my practice room at home . I've never experienced an end breaking . I'm also not really rough on my gear .

what about the cables being smaller diameter.i've always thought or been told larger cable means better sound.am i incorrect?

The capacitance of the larger diameter george L's is actually identical to that of the smaller. The cables that thickness is more important criteria is amp to speaker cab because the thicker guages have less resistance. The only improvement I can see for george L's cables is offering gold plated ends because they are more conductive.

Gold is only gonna make a difference if it's on both sides , ie: the socket/input jack should be gold plated as well .

klasaine is absolutely right about gold making a difference if both jacks and connectors are. I prefer standard over gold, since gold needs more care due to oxydation just like open air copper does.