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Speaker Cable Upgrade... Advice Please

My current cables are Cardas Cross.  My speakers are Wilson Sophia 2.  I just changed electronics from Audio Research tubes, PS Audio DAC, and Whest Phonostage to the Devialet Expert 220 Pro.  The sound is a bit more bright and forward than with the previous gear.  I am happy overall, but I would like to tame it a little.  I am considering an upgrade to the next price category in speaker cables.  $2-3k retail new for a 2.5 meter pair.  Any suggestions for a cable that will work well with my gear?  Any thoughts on Nordost in that price range?  Perhaps Heimdall 2?

The brands that have peaked my interest are Purist, Verastarr, Nordost, and Cardas.

thanks!
Mark
marktomaras
carmenc
293 posts
 
Oh, by the way...I was sure tempted to buy your ARC LS25.  I had one years ago and wish I never parted with it.  Take care.

David
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,571 posts
 
I bet it's the Devialet amp.  I have heard their amps 2 different times and I felt they were a little tipped up in the top end.   You are trying to put a band aid on the sound by substituting cables.  I've been there and went through a boatload of money because I was too arrogant to admit it may have been (in my case) the new speakers.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
The Cardas cables you are using have a sonic signature; laid-back, warm, and a roll-off in the highs. If the presentation of your system is now forward and extended, the new component is the culprit.
Swapping cables randomly, especially a revealing cable like Nordost is not the answer. It's entirely possible that the new component has a more forward presentation than your ARC system.
Are you sure the Devialet has been fully run-in?

astewart8944
499 posts
 
I run Cardas Clear Beyond cables and they aren't going to solve your described issue. 
carmenc
293 posts
 
These guys are right.  IMO you need to get some tubes back into the equation.  You sold your separates...both tube components.  Don’t feel bad, we’ve all done it at one time or another!  It seems you’re used to tubes with your Wilsons.  You can either break in the Devialet and get acclimated to the new sound or try an entirely new integrated.  My recommendation with your Sophia 2; a BAT vk3000se.  Bat has great synergy with Wilson’s.  You get your tubes back in the preamp portion.  I’ve had this integrated.  It’s excellent.  Then address your cabling.  Just my $0.02 worth.  Keep us posted.
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