Hi Stbhorn. The "cryo" is a cryogenic freezing treatment that Rick can apply to any of his cords and cables if you desire. Yes, it costs more, in many cases it doubles the cost of the cable.
Rick explained to me that the process brings the molecules tighter together, making a much denser structure which results in better conductivity. Other benefits of the process is that it results in a smoother, more coherant sound because there is less air in the matrix. And from what I understand, if you have one of his cables and send it back to him, he can still cryo it jacket and all.
A friend of mine told me that he knew someone that was trying to develop this process for use in treating guitar strings some twenty years ago. He said this fellow experiemented on different kinds of objects and noted that one of the great benefits was that it made all items far more durable. He even cryo'd his wifes pantyhose, and she enthusiastically noted that they lasted much much longer and were less prone to running. He went on to say that objects after being treated and returned to room temperature, showed no negative side effects.
I wonder if cryo treating a KFC Chunky Chicken Pot Pie can make a good thing even better?
After only four days of constant play, I'm nothing short of stunned at how these cables are sounding. Huge, holographic imaging that's smooth as silk. The goofy center focus I noted earlier is almost all gone. 80% of it was fixed by toeing in the speakers more, and break-in seems to be curing the rest. The Auditions are still improving, and the coldness I experienced earlier seems to be receding. After full break-in I'll reinsert my Cardas Golden Cross and Acoustic Zen Tsunami and note any differences. I really love the warmth of the Golden Cross, but the Virtual Dynamics have a very seductive quality.
Audiophile Postman? Maybe he drives around in a sound treated mail truck outfitted with a Rogue Tempest, ProAc Tablette 8s and a Wassily Chair, heheh.
