@mikey8811 Which Pass separates are you trying the Au 24 SX XLR’s with and how do they sound so far? I wonder if they have a leaner sound than Cardas does.
My current ICs with the Pass XP-20 and XA-30.8 are the Cardas Clear Reflection XLRs.
I compared these with the Audience Au24 SX Single Ended RCA as well as XLR ICs.
Both the Audience Au24 SX -- SE and XLR ICs DO NOT SOUND LEANER than the Cardas, within my system...to answer your question specifically. And neither does the Cardas (sound lean).
The Audience SX ICs have a ’bigger, bolder sound’ with greater dynamics, more slam and impact and energy. Bass is heftier and tighter. They also offer more air and bloom and also convey a greater degree of venue information and ambience.
The Cardas Clear Reflection sounds more polite and refined in contrast and with an overall more delicate presentation. It moves the stage back a few rows. It sounds ’cleaner’ and less energized and less resonant (Note: these terms are not meant in the negative).
I like the Audience A LOT. But I do believe (within my system) that it accentuates the lower frequencies and the aspects that make it so very engaging and enjoyable (air, bloom, dynamics, etc).
The Cardas Clear Reflection steps away from accentuating and to my ears is ’perhaps’ more accurate (relatively). However, for me, this comes at the cost of being less engaging and exciting (THAN). I also like the Cardas A LOT, but for different reasons than the Audience. It remains engaging and exciting and enjoyable...but when compared to the Audience it is less so.
Both of these cables are very good. It will come down to your preferences and system and goals.