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Cardas Golden Reference - Reterminate?

I've got a long set of CGR cables (XLR) that I plan to slice into smaller, uneven chunks to fit my new system configuration (all single-ended). I'm very capable of re-terminating the cables, and believe that I would likely improve on the termination job that even factory-terminated cables provide (i've carefully studied their work). I have all the necessary connectors, solder, solder pot, iron, rosin, etc.

What I'm seeking is instructions for the main conductors. I'm aware of what to do with the shield & ground/drain wires. However, I'm not sure how to wire the 3 main conductors? That is, 2 for hot & one for ground - or vice-versa?

Help is very much appreciated!

Thanks!
ecamel
herman
2,274 posts
 
Once you are done the cables are essentially worthless i.e. they will have no resale value. I had Cardas do the same job for me a few years ago and what they charged was well worth it because I later sold them as factory terminated and more than made up for what I paid them to do it. I don't know what they charge now but it is worth considering.
steveaudio
331 posts
 
*Once you are done the cables are essentially worthless i.e. they will have no resale value* (Herman)

Cardas Golden Reference are very expensive cables (duh), so I pretty much agree with what Herman said above. It almost seems a shame to start slicing & cutting them. I also wonder if a DIY slicing & re-terminating of expensive cables (higher-end Cardas, Nordost, whatever) would yield the same sound quality as factory terminated?

I'd at least call Cardas before proceeding......

mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
5,221 posts
 
Cardas charges $50 per END, (not per pair) for retermination. It is impossible for anyone but Cardas to reterminate their cable properly no matter how talented you are at soldering. I was a Cardas dealer for many years and have seen how this is done...don't even try.
ecamel OP
13 posts
 
I appreciate the fact that resale value only would exist if Cardas did the termination. This, of course, is an option (have Cardas 're-terminate & certify') now and after my own termination procedures.

I remain confident about my abilities, as I've done this a lot (with Cardas Golden Cross, to great success, which is an bigger pain in the butt w/more conductors than CGR). Wiring instructions would be greatly appreciated, if available.

I'll likely bite the bullet now instead of waiting to spend the cash (>$600) to have them made 'sale-able' (terminated & certified by cardas).

Thanks to all for the replies!
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