Wireworld Silver or Gold Eclipse 8 - IC or Speaker Cable?

Jdub39, I just received the Silver Eclipse 8 XLR. It's showing great potential in my system although it's being used for less than 50 hours. May I ask how long is the burn-in period?

Have you managed to compare the Silver Eclipse 8 XLR with the Gold Eclipse 8 XLR? If the Gold Eclipse 8 has higher levels of resolution, detail and dynamics, I may acquire another one in the near future. The Platinum 8 is too costly so it's out for me. 

1. Difference Between Silver Eclipse 8 and Gold Eclipse 8:

• The Silver Eclipse 8 is typically considered to be a more neutral and detailed cable. It offers excellent transparency and can provide a sense of airiness and detail to the sound. It may excel in reproducing high-frequency details and providing a sense of spaciousness in the soundstage.
• The Gold Eclipse 8, on the other hand, is often characterized as having a slightly warmer and smoother tonal balance compared to the Silver Eclipse. It may offer a more musical and less analytical presentation, making it a good choice for systems that need a touch of warmth and richness.

Which one is more dynamic, smoother, detailed, or 3-dimensional can vary depending on your system and personal preferences. Some may prefer the additional detail and neutrality of the Silver, while others may favor the musicality and warmth of the Gold.
 

2. Interconnects vs. Speaker Cables:

• The choice between investing in high-quality interconnects (XLR) or speaker cables depends on your system's needs and where you perceive the most significant impact. Both can make a noticeable difference, but the specific benefit will depend on your existing components and their strengths and weaknesses.
• In general, if you feel that your system is already well-balanced and you want to enhance detail and soundstage, upgrading your interconnects can be a good choice. They can have a substantial impact on the clarity and imaging of your audio.
• On the other hand, if you're looking to optimize the power delivery from your amplifier to your speakers and improve the overall synergy in your system, upgrading your speaker cables may be the better choice.

Ultimately, the "better" choice between interconnects and speaker cables is system-dependent and based on the aspects of your system that you want to improve. It's worth noting that the differences between cable lines can be subtle and are best evaluated through listening tests in your own setup. If possible, consult with a knowledgeable audio dealer or Wireworld representative who may be able to provide specific recommendations based on your gear and listening preferences.

Tokushi, thanks for the post. Certainly useful !

I presume you have experience with both Silver Eclipse 8 and Gold Eclipse 8 cables judging from your detailed assessment? I agree it’s a matter of mix and match and from your description it looks like the Silver Eclipse 8 will suit my system or preferences more than the Gold Eclipse 8 as I am looking for a more open and 3-dimensional sound rather than warmth. It is surprising to know that the Gold Eclipse 8 is warmer sounding than the Silver Eclipse 8 as the conductors are solid silver while the Silver Eclipse 8 is copper with silver plating. Anyway, it’s good to know the Gold Eclipse 8 sounds warmer than the Silver Eclipse 8. I surely don’t want a warmer sound as I am seeking for an airier, more open and 3-dimensional sound.

My current Acrolink 8N-A2080III Evo XLR sounds warmer with a fuller midrange in comparison. The tonal quality and delivery in nuance between the two XLR interconnects is different too, surprisingly.

It appears that I have made a right choice in investing in the Silver Eclipse 8 XLR interconnects rather than speaker cables. A 4m pair Silver Eclipse 8 speaker cables is too costly for me so I’ve decided to stick with what I have since it all sound balanced and great at the moment.

@ryder 

Congrats on the Silver 8's , I only compared them to the Eclipse 8's  and found them to be just what I was after. Give them 200hrs to show there stuff , it was at that point I decided I was keeping them. They just allow musicality to flow with an uncanny ease and openness with great organization. 

@jdub39 Thanks for the response. That’s useful to know and it’s fortunate I picked the Silver Eclipse 8 over Eclipse 8. I wanted some silver content in the conductors and it looks like I’ve made the right choice.