Dang it. Well, the results are in and my wallet is going to get lighter.
Here’s the chain: JC-3+ - XLR1 - JC-2 - XLR2 - active x-over
I also have an Ayre QB-9 DSD - XLR1.5 - JC-2 - XLR2 - active x-over
First, we replaced the XLR1 with the VdH Mountain. It’s a short run between the two, but we used a 2m cable since that was what he brought. There was a slight improvement in bass definition and there was more air around the instruments, but not dramatically so. We put it on the XLR1.5 and came to the same conclusion. Finally, we replaced XLR2. Wow! ok, things just got real. Bass definition became more round and more solid. Instruments like guitar and vocals became more lifelike. XLR2 is a solid 2M+ run, so replacing that long Belden 8423 cable did the trick. We didn't hear as much of a difference at XLR1 and XLR1.5 positions because the longer run was in the way sonically.
So, I guess I’m now convinced. However, I’m going to replace ALL of the XLRs with the Rock. I can’t afford the Mountain, but he said I’d get pretty far down the road I need to go with the Rock. They are both part of the 3T family.
I was very impressed that he came out to my house and spent almost 2 hours letting me demo the cables in my own system. If you are in Atlanta, you should get to know Chris Amos at Kemela.
Here’s the chain: JC-3+ - XLR1 - JC-2 - XLR2 - active x-over
I also have an Ayre QB-9 DSD - XLR1.5 - JC-2 - XLR2 - active x-over
First, we replaced the XLR1 with the VdH Mountain. It’s a short run between the two, but we used a 2m cable since that was what he brought. There was a slight improvement in bass definition and there was more air around the instruments, but not dramatically so. We put it on the XLR1.5 and came to the same conclusion. Finally, we replaced XLR2. Wow! ok, things just got real. Bass definition became more round and more solid. Instruments like guitar and vocals became more lifelike. XLR2 is a solid 2M+ run, so replacing that long Belden 8423 cable did the trick. We didn't hear as much of a difference at XLR1 and XLR1.5 positions because the longer run was in the way sonically.
So, I guess I’m now convinced. However, I’m going to replace ALL of the XLRs with the Rock. I can’t afford the Mountain, but he said I’d get pretty far down the road I need to go with the Rock. They are both part of the 3T family.
I was very impressed that he came out to my house and spent almost 2 hours letting me demo the cables in my own system. If you are in Atlanta, you should get to know Chris Amos at Kemela.