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Review: High Fidelity Cables CT-1 Interconnect Interconnect

Category: Cables

15-May-2012
High Fidelity Cables CT-1 Interconnect

At 1100 hours after installation, I can say with certainty Rick Schultz has hit this one out of the park!

I feel it’s necessary to quality my observations from two perspectives: first, as a former Virtual Dynamics customer and second as a High Fidelity believer.

I am familiar with Rick’s Virtual Dynamics products; and allow me to say, I’ve never been averse to spending an hour pre-bending a cable prior to installing, then awaiting the 1000 hour mark prior to realizing its full potential.

That said, I reacted with skepticism when Rick announced his new venture announcing superior offering reduced break-in. Indeed a mighty boast; however, Rick has never failed to make good on a promise.

CT-1 installs effortlessly and its sleek appearance is aesthetically appealing to all. Upon powering up the system one immediately “feels” the cable’s presence while experiencing a system transformation. It is literally altering the conductivity of the entire audio system.

As with any of Rick’s products, break-in is required; yet he has somehow reduced the necessary time by over 50%. Sure, the cable slightly improves over the 500 hour mark but the break-in process is enjoyable. One can literally smile upon opening the box.

On my experience, Rick has taken the best of Genesis, Judge and Ultra Clear as a foundation, while significantly augmenting the ability to deliver detailed impact on the audio system.

Bass is tightly focused and one definitely senses “pressure” generated by the recording. Midrange is sharp yet never overpowering fine details found in delicate percussion, strings or wind instruments; furthermore, depending on the recording, one can easily ascertain breath and microphone position.

As I reflect on my past audio experiences, I realize Rick has indeed ushered in a new frontier. Experience a master’s work in your system – it will change your definition of audio.

The journey never ends.
tddupuy
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I've heard a lot of buzz around these cables, but as someone who was not a fan of Virtual Dynamics cables, let me ask a question. Does the CT-1 soundstage have the same immediacy of the Virtual Dynamics cables?

I thought the tonal qualities of the Virtual Dynamics cables were terrific, but the soundstage was much too forward for my listening tastes. I know that some folks love that immediacy of sitting in the front row, but I prefer a more mid-hall, laid back type of soundstage presentation delivered by cables like PAD, Stealth, Tara Labs, etc. So how do the CT-1's stack up in this regard?
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
These cables do not tune the sound like the others you mention. They simply get out of the way, so will reflect what is fed to them. Due to the very low noise floor, there is a greater level of detail that comes through, unaltered from the original recording. As the cables break in, the notes are held longer after the initial attack and the soundstage depth increases. At about 300 hours, I started to notice sounds coming from outside my speakers, which are making these big speakers pretty much disappear. For that to happen in my crazy-sized and acoustically-challenged living room is pretty extraordinary, IMO. Hope this helps answer your question. I have the Ultimate CT-1 between my CD player and Preamp. Speakers are modified VSA VR-7SE Mk2s.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Thanks Fplanner2000. How does the depth of stage compare to say a Purist Audio Design cable? Don't get me wrong, the Virtual Dynamics soundstage was very large, as high and wide as I've ever heard, it did come from well outside the speaker boxes, but it lacked depth. It was a rather flat and 2 dimensional sound stage. The cables I mentioned make my rear wall dissappear, and the stage goes way out into my driveway. LOL!

I suppose I'll just keep my eyes out for a used pair and try them for myself.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
An easier, less expensive idea would be to just rent what you want to try from the Cable Company. I'm pretty sure they stock most of them. Be sure to inquire how many hours are on whichever you decide to rent.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
04-11-13: Fplanner2000
An easier, less expensive idea would be to just rent what you want to try from the Cable Company. I'm pretty sure they stock most of them. Be sure to inquire how many hours are on whichever you decide to rent.

That sounds like a good idea, but I've never used The Cable Company for a couple reasons. First, I will not pay new cable prices, their used prices are high too, and secondly, being a PA resident, I get to add another 6% to the cost for sales tax in addition to shipping. Yes, I could try through The Cable Company and look to buy somewhere else if I like them, but I do not like to be disengenuous like that.

Like any hot ticket new item, eventually it will show up used on Audiogon for a decent price. I can't afford to live on the cutting edge of new technology, but I like to make notes for future reference. :)
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