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AudioQuest vs Cardas XLR

Hello all,

Looking to upgrade my interconnects from my McIntosh C2700 to MC611 monoblocks. I am very interested in AQ Tbirds or Firebirds vs. Cardas Clear Beyond XLRs. I want an end-game cable and would appreciate some feedback. I'm open to any additional suggestions. I do enjoy the prodigious bass/midbass and the smooth midrange that the combo provides. It's a little light on top, though (as McIntosh is). I think Cardas and AQ will preserve my wishes, but is there anything out there that will keep my midrange/mid-bass/bass and improve upon the highs? I think I may be asking for too much, though! I would be very grateful for some direction. 

128x128jeffreyw
decooney
2,172 posts
 

@jafant At one time not long ago, Cardas was guilty of this practice as well.

 

False, not authentic Cardas. Fake counterfeits are guilty of this.

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Authentic Cardas Pure Copper is mined in the Southwest USA and processed the Northeast USA. Part of the cable mfg in Southern California, final assembly terminations, quality checks, packaging and shipping in Bandon, Oregon. Some may be surprised who else uses Cardas copper too.

builder3
766 posts
 

Illustrates once again why any counterfeit is plain thievery. Steals from the unknowing buyer, and from the pocket and reputation of the legitimate manufacturer.

stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,483 posts
 

If your equipment is differentially balanced and you're using balanced connections, there isn't much difference in cables

spearl8
45 posts
 

Actually according to my dealer all Audioquest cables are made in China except he wasn’t sure about the very highest model. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,358 posts
 

@spearl8 I’d also rather have a US made product, however, top models AQ are great cables.

@jeffreyw one cable comes ti mind that satisfies your sonic requirements is the Acoustic Zen Absolute Copper. It does most of what you’re looking for in the bass, mid bass and midrange and doesn’t round off the highs. 

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