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Cardas Golden Reference upgrade to what?

Hi.

My system currently runs all Cardas Golden Reference RCA cables between sources and preamp, and between pre and power amps. Never been an issue. Loved the Cardas full bodied and rich tone. Recent system reconfiguration forces the need to have longer RCA IC between pre and power. Good opportunity to upgrade or move onto something else rather than just a longer pair of Golden Reference. And if I can get a good deal on multiple pairs of IC, can upgrade all the other Cardas GR IC in my system also.

Any comments or suggestions?

I have tried AN-Vz cables and in my system they sound thin and with no body. I have some tried Cello String IC and although they have nice tone similar to the Golden Reference, they are harsh and less refined big time in comparison. I like the Cello better than the AN-Vz.

The following is what I have been considering:
Ocellia Reference (*)
Cardas Clear
Silent Source Musical Reference

Also considering, but less (due to price and less information):
Kondo LP, LPz - will cost an arm and a leg
Shindo - have no idea how they will sound

I have been recommended:
Basis Audio PSTT

* Anyone done a direct comparison between Cardas Golden Reference and Ocellia Reference?

Thank you all in advance for your expertise and advice.

Best regards,
David
linnmaster
jallen
502 posts
 
At this level, the point of diminishing returns is at play here. I say keep the Cardas, and invest in something else. They are superb cables, get out of the way, and are musical.
theo's avatar
theo
2,681 posts
 
You state:
'Never been an issue. Loved the Cardas full bodied and rich tone."
I'd say "if it ain't broke don't fix it"

But if you really have to scratch that itch, stay with Cardas. You like the sound. Maybe a slight variation is all it would take to satisfy your need. I have all but my speaker cables are Cardas GR's as well and have wondered what a change to either the Clear or Golden Presense would do. But I like that Cardas sound and would myself stay with Cardas.
linnmaster OP
45 posts
 
I am keen on the ocellia reference cables as my speakers are ocellia. I run ocellia speaker cables, and compared to othe cables, the ocellia cables with their speakers makes a world of difference. Kondo cables to the ocellia calliope speakers sound worse.

Based on this is it logical to think that running ocellia cable throughout will make a really good match.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,467 posts
 
Jallen....At this level, the point of diminishing returns is at play here" I question this statement. I found that ALL cables sound different with different gear...and that it has absolutely nothing to do with cost. ..for instance... I absolutely love Audioquest SKY/EVEREST cables with my system. I thought that if I move up to the "Signature" line (much more expensive) that they would bring more thrills to the party. Actually, when I substituted the Signatures for SKY/EVEREST, the sound took a dramatic nose dive. I could never listen to the system with the Signatures. ...and these were used for days just before in the New York Audio Show...so they were well broken in.
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