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Alternatives for Transparent Reference MM2

I am currently using a transparent reference MM2 interconnect (MSB dac to Class A poweramp) and speaker cable.

However, I will be inserting a preamp (ARC Ref5SE) into my system and will need an extra pair of interconnects. As a matter of principle, I only buy cables used since I refuse to take a 50% depreciation hit on an item with 90% margin. First, MM2 (I need 1.5m XLR) rarely show up used, and besides I have to get them matched to my gear, which will set me back another $1K. So I am considering selling my Transparent interconnects and get two pairs of a different brand. I am looking for a mainstream highly respected brand, with a good used market. Target price range is $2000 used per pair. Some alternatives are:

Wireworld Platinum Eclipse
Kimber KS 1136
Tara labs

Has anyone compared these cables with the Transparent MM2? Any other contenders I should be considering?
edorr
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
edorr..congrats...I haven't had any long amount of time with Shunyata signal cables...but I have with Transparent. I can't seem to get away from them either...

A lot of this is system dependent I am sure...anyway...best of luck!
pabrognara
12 posts
 
Dear Edorr,
I´m in the same dillema testing Transparent Reference XL MM2 vx Shunaya Anaconda with ARC REF5. I was hearing Trans XL MM2 today and found the sound a bit metallic in the voices, but the bass was punchier, simply perfect as well guitar which were cleaner and better focused. I only think Anaconda were more smooth. May I know what exactly transparent are you using and price they cost brand new?
thesaint519
162 posts
 
So Edorr, what did you finally decide to go with?
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,773 posts
 
Edorr and Pabrognara,

I have had the pure listening pleasure of auditioning the ARC REF5 SE w/ Transparent Opus cable/cord(s). Grab them if you find used, otherwise you will eventually end up there. I like Transparent, as they are a natural sonic match for ARC. Additionally, I like the company's trade-up policy. Not all cable/cord companies do this for their customers. Happy Listening!
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