High Quality XLR IC's For My System

The Shunyata anaconda zitrons I am seeing available cost around $900 used for a 1m IC-- so out of my price range, or at least my wife's. 

“If I could get better transparency from my cables without the brightness associated with some, that is my goal. Additional bass response would be a welcome byproduct as well”

@teeshot,

I highly recommend Audio Envy Cables. The two pairs should be under $400 plus shipping. If you don’t like them, I will buy back both pairs from you.....they are stupendously good for the money. I have yet to hear a cable made from pure OCC copper that sounds anything like AE’s regardless of the price point. 

No association with Audio Envy, just a happy customer. 

I decided to give Audio Envy XLR’s a try after the glowing review from @lalitk

 I’ve only had them in my system a couple days but I can tell you immediately they surpassed my former reference $1400 IC’s on all accounts that are important to me. There is more space between the instruments. The sound stage grew in all directions; the musicality and tonal balance is so enjoyable to listen to. This could very well be the highest upgrade that my system has seen in awhile.

@koehnerb,

Welcome to Audiogon, I am happy to hear you’re enjoying your new cable. As you pointed out, the musicality is unmistakable and intoxicating...I find myself listening to music for hours without experiencing any listening fatigue. 

I concur about Audio Envy. I'm using their O'Nestian 4:4 XLR ICs between my amp and preamp, and they sound awesome ... totally blow away the Cardas GR ICs they replaced. The sound is evenly balanced through the sound spectrum. If you're looking for heavier bass, then try the AE O'Nestian 5:3 cables.  I'm also using AE Studio Prestige ICs throughout the rest of my system. The overall AE sound is one of clarity and articulation with a good deal of gravitas. These are some of the finest cables I've heard.