jonathan, my system has 2 sets of valhallas and 2 sets of transparent ref xl. these are all balanced interconnects. i am useing the transparent opus mm speaker cable. since i have a 30 foot fun of ref. xl between my preamp and amp i have not tried the valhallas exclusively as interconnects. i am tempted to replace my 30 foot run with valhalla but am waiting for the opus interconnect and will want to be able to get the trade-in with transparent. in comparing the 2 in my system i agree with your comments. the openness of the valhalla is the best i've heard in an interconnect. the ref. xl is still very good and among the very best at any price. as we discussed this before i don't need to mention the performance of the opus.
Nordost Valhalla. vs Transparent Ref XL
I just finished comparing the Valhalla with the Ref XL and WOW!!! I compared a complete set of the Ref XLs with a complete set of the Valhallas and the Valhallas won easily. Much greater resolution, detail, musicality, etc. Bass seemed to have greater texture and seemed a bit tighter as well. Everything seemed more extended. There were more highs without harshness, and fuller sweeter midrange. And speed... incredibly fast. I have not heard anything that keeps up with it.
I have always been a great fan of the Transparent line and while I do believe the $23,000 Opus speaker cable is a totally different ballgame, I really think that the Valhalla is probably right between the RefXL and Opus for much less money.
Has anyone else compared the Valhalla's with other cables?
I have always been a great fan of the Transparent line and while I do believe the $23,000 Opus speaker cable is a totally different ballgame, I really think that the Valhalla is probably right between the RefXL and Opus for much less money.
Has anyone else compared the Valhalla's with other cables?