Another speaker cable review

[thien]

I am not an audiophile nor a real audio enthousiast for that matter. I am just trying to squeeze the best out of my stereo system for my collection of 30 CDs or so :). I started to believe that cables makes a difference about a month ago when my friend lent me his interconnects. Ever since, I am trying to find those that matches best with my taste.

I would like to thank Omer of OZ Enterprise for his incredible service for a cable newbie like me and for trusting me enough to send $700+ worth of speakers' cables without even asking for my credit card number.

Amp: SimAudio Moon I-3
Source: Micromega Stage 6
Speakers: B&W CM6
Current speaker cable: IXOS Gamma 603
Interconnects:
a) Maple Audio Works Ambiance: warm lush midrange, airy highs
b) GutWire Basic: widest soundstage, too bright for my taste
c) Homebrew ICs from some audiophile bloke: quite neutral, high is more extended than the Ambiance but less agressive than the Basic.
Music: Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon OSD, Enya, Sigur Ros, Sarah McLachlan.

IXOS 603: Weird color jacket, good tonal, warm mid range, high is airy. Cheap $3/foot.

Ultralink Excelsior: mean looks, can complete with my garden hose for size. Has more bass than other cables. Similar sound like the IXOS with maybe a bit more trebble energy but not by much. Soundstage is wider than the IXOS but also shorter, depth is about the same as the IXOS. $5/foot

QED X-Tube 350: Average looking. In the first few seconds, it's clear that the QED is in a different league for the highs, airy, smooth and have loads of energy. The bass and mid-range is neutral but more transparent than the IXOS or Ultralink that it makes them sound muffled by comparison. There is a lots more details to be heard with this cable. $15/foot

[ProAc_Fan]

Dude all that nice gear and 30 CD's!! Seriously start building your audio collection. I don't know what you listen to but used CD's are readily available and cheap as dirt. Heck if you really want cheap sources, buy a decent TT and buy used ( but in nice condition) Lp's.You can snag those for under a $1 each usually.

Welcome to AK and yes Omer is a very good dealer.


Mike

[opt80]

Yes,Thien,Pro is right!With all that great gear and only 30 cds it is the equivalent of owning a BMW but only driving it in your driveway.Welcome to AK.

Omer is a great guy.

Alan

[thien]

Thank guys. I do have the plans to expand my CD collection. I just need to find the ones that appeals to me. :D

[grumpy]

thien

Have you considered Vinyl. Much harder to find an LP you dont like :yes:

[thien]

I have thought about it but decided to refrain from going the vinyl route until I can make out what all those turntable lingos is about. Also my amp does not have a phono stage and I have to find one first, not to mention the perfect turntable, arm and cartridge. Too many things there, I am already having problem choosing a single speaker cable :). I am currently aiming for the easy road with CDs. That Shanling T100 looks gorgeous! :)