I'm looking at the VR55 Aktive. The quote at asking price included the upgraded Masterlink cable, maybe $5,000 discount to sell the speaker at the asking price or 10% of the original asking price. The Ultra 11 is substantially more as you say, but the cabling upgrade is still about 10% of the asking price. So, if I heard 10% or more sound benefit, maybe I would pay it. If I didn't find it that dramatic a difference, I wouldn't. I intend to audition the VR55 at the manufacturer sometime later this year. I will keep using my GroverHuffman cabling outside of the speaker internals.
As to whether or not Masterbuilt understands the significance and/or applies wire directionality, I have no idea. I thought that wire directionality becomes apparent after burn-in where the directionality is set after use. I maybe incorrect. My cables are labeled as to direction but that maybe for future reference when they are unplugged.
As to whether or not Masterbuilt understands the significance and/or applies wire directionality, I have no idea. I thought that wire directionality becomes apparent after burn-in where the directionality is set after use. I maybe incorrect. My cables are labeled as to direction but that maybe for future reference when they are unplugged.