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VH Audio Symmetry vs Silver Audio Appassionata XLR

Has anyone compared the VH Audio Symmetry, a highly regarded balanced IC, with the balanced version of Silver Audio's Appassionata, another highly regarded IC?

Both Max Kreifeldt and Chris Ven Haus are wonderful craftsman who consistently offer incredible value for the price.

I use Max's Silver Breeze for my analog rig and am very, very pleased. I do use the Ven Haus Ag ICs (XLR and SE) for the rest of my system, but will likely be moving to a pair of balanced tube monoblocks from SE.

I like Ag and find the Silver Audio and VH Audio fit my budget.

Thanks.

Thoughts would be appreciated.
128x128flyfish2002

Showing 2 responses by flyfish2002

flyfish2002's avatar
flyfish2002 OP
94 posts
 
Thanks, Ua100k. I know Chris uses silver in the signal and return/ground - it must be the shield that has the silver-plated copper braid.

For terminations, Chris' uses the Furutech XLRs and Max uses XLOs. Any comment here? I have heard the Furutech XLRs are simply the finest available and worth it.

Best.
flyfish2002's avatar
flyfish2002 OP
94 posts
 
I did find this under the FAQ on Max's web site:

"Only two other valid electrical uses for silver plating exists; at connector contact surfaces and to boost the conductivity of braided mesh shielding material..."

I didn't copy the entire "dissertation", but Max talks to the importance of thin, solid core silver with Teflon dielectric wire in ICs - just like Chris' Symmetry. Max seemed OK with silver-plated copper mesh for the shield, though I don't know what Max uses for his products.

I appreciate your comments on the LT issues with Cu, however. I probably will test drive Max's ICs.

Best.
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