Thiel Owners

jafant,

Yes, please let us know what you think about the Qln Prestige 5s when you have a chance to hear them.

tomthiel,

I share your concerns about "pro" vs. "high-end" cable controversies. I've had a chance to compare Belden 1800F XLRs to several "mid-end" interconnects, and I much prefer other cables to the Beldens. In my system, the Beldens are a bit harsh sounding, with lack of fullness in the bass and an overall lack of refinement. I haven't listened to the Benchmark XLRs, but they apparently use Canare Star Quad L-4E6S wire with Neutrik connectors. In reading cable discussions by several pro audio folks on a pro gear forum, I've noticed that many of them prefer Grimm TPR to any of the Mogami, Canare, or Belden wire, and some seem to feel that star-quad XLRs don't sound as good as other geometries in situations where going all-out to reduce noise is not a major requirement. Lately, I've seen positive comments about Vovox unshielded wire and a new cable from GhostCables designed to sound better than Grimm while not costing as much as Vovox.

As far as long XLRs go, I may try a Grimm TPR pair or possibly the new GhostCables XLRs to see how they perform compared to my current Cardas Clear Reflection XLRs. I'll post some comments if I decide to invest the $150 needed to buy an 18-foot pair of "pro" XLRs. I guess that's a pretty small investment in the interest of advancing my own personal home version of "cable science."

sdl4

I certainly will post my audition time later in Fall.
Summer is winding down quickly.

Happy Listening!

thoft

I hope your 3.5 loudspeakers find the next good home soon.
This is a very popular model among the Panel.

Happy Listening!

sdl4 - thanks for your cable feedback. Indeed star quad's major claim to fame is rejection of incoming noise - and that is not as big a concern for hi fi as for pro environments. BTW: I use Vovox unshielded for my recording mic feeds and love it. Please keep us apprised of your studies. I among many want to know a cost-effective wire solution.