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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

Showing 12 responses by ketcham

ketcham
92 posts
 
My experience is the source or dac if you run digital. I favor dac over source, myself.
ketcham
92 posts
 
Calvin,

I ask because I know of some amps I like but they could be limiting at 86 dB. The 50W Allnic A6000 have some power for being 300b x4 per monoblock. That said, I believe there are many wonderful amps that will pair better.

Separate question: With UR speaker cable, is it best to be spade or banana at the amps? Is it true that magnetism is best though banana and connection best through spade? The banana connections on mine are very loose, per se.

Welcome all thoughts?
ketcham
92 posts
 
Hi everyone, I have been following this thread with keen interest. Although I am some time away from affording even one of these well designed cables, I have to ask one simple question. How do you run multiple power cables, speaker cables where each has their own magnetic stand that takes up significant real estate on the floor? Do you isolate the stands themselves too? Has anyone tried it? Someone here could design a cable rack to place next to their component rack.

I did recently purchase two sets of the UR RCA cables for my system and I agree the sound does continue to improve. My next move will likely be speaker cable. Power cables would require many. Wall to audience aR12, aR12 to Plasmatron, Plasmatron to dac, etc. You see a WEB of cables in my future.
ketcham
92 posts
 
"I have the wave guides about 24 inches off the floor using 18 KVA broken isolators with Rightway Audio isolators mounted on them. "

Any possibility to have pictures of this posted or a web link...I am very curious how this is implemented.

Thanks,

j

PS - D-why do you use metal shielding on your cables, where and how?

Appreciate the insight!.
ketcham
92 posts
 
I you have read my posts elsewhere, you will know my system has evolved into all Allnic gear. I placed 1.5 meter ultra reference between the dac and pre then to amps. There are now musicians playing in my living room. The sound stage is so deep and ethereal even on occasion an illusion of sound sourcing from my side or behind me. ...often the hairs on my neck will raise up because the music is so visceral and emotional engaging.

I can see why this thread has the steady few who post passionately about rick's accomplishment. It took 100 hours, but wow! ...this is highly understated!

Now do I get one power cord when I need 6 or 8. Or get speaker cable? Audience AU24se is what I currently use. They are amazing cables themselves.
ketcham
92 posts
 

On my Allnic D5000 dac I have balanced cables and HF reference cables in place. Both hooked to the pre-amp. I can immediately go a-to-b, b-to-a. The pre to amps are HF reference cables.

The result: Much wider, deeper soundstage, better inner detail, 3-D imaging. 20% louder too--like the proverbial voice of GOD. I know the output voltages are spec the same.

If someone is to purchase one cable, I would say source to pre is most effective.
ketcham
92 posts
 
Linkster- I used z-plugs over banana with my last two sets, including Audience 24se (a wonderful cable at 1/5th the price, btw).

Can you provide a link of a z-plug with the proper thread to fit into the UR speaker cable? How did you fit yours?

Thanks!
ketcham
92 posts
 
Just received 3 meter ur speaker cable. Tips on setting up. Float them on wood blocks, etc. any suggestions welcomed
ketcham
92 posts
 
Ddraudt - if you are able to send me pictures of your setup, this would be very helpful. I never believed I would spend this kind of cash for cable. To figure the best setup for them is necessary. ...with appreciation.
ketcham
92 posts
 
Calvin. Tell me more about the studio 2 and why they need a ton of power. What is the rated efficiency, for example?
ketcham
92 posts
 
If banana plug fit loosely, would you stretch them out using jewelry screw driver mentioned previously on this thread. eons ago?

I certainly appreciate everyone's endeavors.

PS thanks for defining PRAT...I read that term often with little meaning.
ketcham
92 posts
 
as a long time observer and part time contributor to this thread.  I recommend anyone considering these excellent and stupid expensive cables to audition them before purchasing regardless of what others say.  There is absolute synergy in every system and our ears are unique.  

I actually sold my entire ultimate reference loom and replaced with antipodes reference loom for a fraction of the price.  This hands down was the best move in my system. 

I am happy to see high fidelity innovation directed to a more 'affordable' market. 
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