2. cables
  3. 1335297906

High Fidelity Cables CT-1designed by Rick Schultz

In December 2011,I wrote that High Fidelity cables led by cable designer Rick Schultz was putting together a new cable.The cable came to market as CT-1.The CT-1 has FINALLY made it into my system!I had obtained a version of the prototype that Rick had been working on.It blew my previous reference Genesis by Virtual Dynamics.I thought I had finally found my end with this cable.This prototype delivered to my ears "Nirvana".Could I be at the end of my quest for the ultimate sound?
No. I received two pairs of CT-1 to replace my prototypes.They went into the system this past Friday.Unable to dedicate time until Sunday listening,I stole a few moments,ducking away from company with anticipation.My guest could tell even with the music set for"ambiance"something was intriguing and I was in for a treat!
The experience:
First off,CT-1 was very user friendly.Installation was simple;the cable is very nice and light.The female RCA fit beautifully unlike any I had found in other cable.It was secure and reliable.It seemed much thought was dedicated to developing a designer fit to an aesthetically stunning RCA connector.Install entailed a few wiggles to ensure what seemed like a compression fit on my RCA.
It was 2-3 hrs. for the 1st step of break in to be complete.At that point I had something different!Today,although they only have 10-12 hrs. on them,I can`t put into words how much my system has transformed.Believe me,I loved my prototypes.However....there is simply no comparision.
The clarity and sound is so natural.
The soundstage is like nothing I ever heard.Resoulution is breathtaking and inner detail is simply hard to believe possible.
The sound has transended and now it simply does not seem as thought I have speakers.
My system is musicians playing music.
I am told with time they will improve and I trust that as it was revealed with the prototypes.I wanted to share my thoughts with you that now.
Unequivocally,a testament to High Fidelity,as the name declares.
High Fidelity Cables for me,the last word on it,after 12 hours!
Truly Amazing

Al
alpass
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Theaudiotweak, at the top of my pile is the Harmonix cable support. True this may not be the best vibration isolator, but the enomous variation in performance between just the 18 kv isolator or no isolator suggest that static is a greater threat.

I did find that putting StillPoints Ultra Minis which have ceramic ball isolation within them did help the sound of platforms of wood filled with shot.

There really is much to explore with isolation of cables in addition to components.
ddraudt's avatar
ddraudt
609 posts
 
Tom, Thanks. Audiolabyrinth, Thanks.
Great to learn even more ideas on this.
Tweakaholics Unite!!
Dave
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
you are welcome TBg, let me know If may be of any help with anything else, cheers.
ddraudt's avatar
ddraudt
609 posts
 
Theaudiotweak, about non ferrous knife edge- How about a ceramic knife blade!!!
about airborne vibration, I have seen using weight (mostly lead)
on power and signal cables for some time with Wonderful results.
One need put the right amount weight, of the right type, in the right places. Achieving that produces exceptional low noise, air, bass, dynamics, detail and listening fun.
I have 2 five pound lead filled wood blocks on my CT-1 U Speaker waveguides. as well as the Mini's and platforms mentioned by Tbg
theaudiotweak
2,801 posts
 
Placement of the right material in the right place that has the right mass is crucial. I prefer to use materials that are of similar reactance that have much the same transfer rate and mechanical impedance and are of similar sonic character. Brass and certain grade of steels are my preference.. Soft materials including lead are actually high impedance and will store energy and when placed around or on other materials greatly influence energy flow and therefore character. These soft materials are mutes of sorts and dynamic structure will change. Adjustable material reactance is the key much like tuning a musical instrument.

Dave I would propose to you that you purchase some heavy duty zip lock bags that you fill these with different materials and weight and experiment with the tuning of your cables or chassis. If your try materials that are the same, the size of that material affects their reactive value and you can easily hear this as well. So the material choice could be the right one but it's initial choice of size maybe the wrong one..You have to try a few of the same family to get it most right. This test can be easily changed, compared and repeated and may be fun for only a few but may add value to your broad audio experience. Tom
More to discover