Transparent Reference XL or Nordost Valhalla

Mikelavigne offers wise advice. I would take his last statement one step further and say that synergy is important at any level. There is absolutely no way to predict which cable will sound better to you in your system. You will have to try them.

Herman, i couldn't agree more......after i reread my post i wished i had eliminated "at this level" in that sentence.

thanks for making that point.

Danny, the N802 would be on the lean side of neutral.....i would recommend auditioning the Valhalla before purchase. there might be other cable that would have a better balance in your system. if your source gear is "lean"....read "digital" sounding the balance might be strident or forward....it comes down to taste. in a vinyl system with a "rich" sounding cartridge it could be perfect.

be patient with the cable matching process for best results.

FWIW, I've tried the Valhalla with the Rowland 10 using WP6 speakers, and I did find the sound too lean, bordering on bright. Source was the Audiomeca Enkianthus DAC.

However, I love the Valhalla with Levinson (same source and speakers), which is darker sounding than the Rowland. So indeed, synergy (as well as personal taste) is very important.