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Too much of a good thing...

I've always been a "Cardas guy" and they're always worked great in all my setup. I recently replaced my Thiel CS2.4's with Audio Physic Avanti III, which are stunning speakers. When an opportunity to get a Pass Labs XA60.5 at a very reasonable price came up, I couldn't pass it up. The combination of the AP and the PL is just plain amazing. Now to the challenge, I'm starting to think that the speaker/amp combination which are both on the warmer side and the warmth of the Cardas Cross (and Golden Cross interconnects) might be too much of a good thing.

What other speaker cables should I be looking at?

Rest of the system consists of a PS Audio DirectStream DAC (connected via XLR directly to Pass amps) with Auralic Aries streaming (connected via AQ Carbon USB).
128x128audiojan
audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
402 posts
 
Ok, so I guess I should've been clearer... it's been over a month of listening. I've owned all cables for at least 5 years, so they're burnt in. The speakers are about 3 months by now and although the amp was only added about a month ago, it was used (although never abused).

After month of listening ~2 (or more) per day, by now they should be pretty much settled in.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
Wireworld. 
tooblue
1,927 posts
 
I too am a Cardas, Cross specifically, guy who loves that cable for the very reason you have stated, when looking for a cable to get away from that darker signature I have found the Audioquest Colorado’s to meet that need. There are some available from Music Direct for 50% off and they show up used as people move up to the newer models. Please note my experience stated is mainly with the ICs. Enjoy the music.

gdnrbob
4,445 posts
 
I would look at Audioquest, too.
All of their cables perform above their price range compared to other company's offerings. Sound-wise, I won't say they are neutral, but definitely not colored.
B 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Why not stay within the Cardas universe? You may be surprised at how different the Clear or Clear Beyond are from the Cross / Golden Cross series. 

A cable loan from The Cable Co. will let you hear the differences, which I believe will fit your new needs, without getting too far off from what you liked about Cardas in the first place.

All the best.
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