Xangsane Cryo OCC vs Sterling Silver XLRs

@ted_b I skipped the DIY method as the XS-1105 is $918 for 12m on AliX from the Xangsane store and $668 for 12m directly from Xangsane US website.  I paid $886 for the 2 cables and with the option of returning them if they are not to my liking.  Terminating the cables would have me stuck with $900 worth of cables that I cannot resales because I'm sure the resale value of these are not good based on the lack of reviews (written or YouTube).

Also, I had issue with terminating thicker XLR cables.  Thin Mogami cables were straightforward and simple with the copper Viborg XLR connectors.  When I tried to terminate thicker cables I've had issues and quite simply fails on XLR and RCA connectors.  I switched over to EIZZ XLR connectors that are solderless screw connectors to complete the Neotech NEI-3002 and 3001s.

If I keep the Xangsane and meet someone or get recommendation from a company that can termite the Xangsane cables to the Viborg silver connectors, I would definitely be interested in reterminating these cables.  I originally was interested in purchasing Neotech NEI-1002 MkII to be terminated with the Viborg silver connectors being terminated by Audiophonics or Hifi Collective.

@stillbuyingtoys Ah, of course, that makes perfect sense - no reason to DIY anything given you have the option to return for a refund if dissatisfied.

I am curious about the Xangsane silver although I suspect it may be a bit thin and dry in comparison to my present configuration (Belden 8428 18 AWG tinned OFC) and therefore I harbor no expectations. Awaiting your detailed evaluation.

stillbuyingtoys

The preassembled 1105 literature states that they have rhodium over pure copper XLR connectors.  Additionally, they do not appear to be solid runs, but more of a solid group/stranded one. I also await your experience with them.

ted_b

In terminating bulk 1105 to XLR connectors, with the multiple shields and the absence of a drain wire, it would seem to make sense to solder a small wire to the shields at each end for simpler termination to the shield pin.  

@ted_b

Correction. One of the things that I like best about the Xangsane RCA interconnects is that they specify that the terminations are solid copper with either gold or rhodium plating, unlike many American brands.

@stillbuyingtoys I've been doing the DIY cable thing for years.   The options from Xangsane have peaked my interest.   I recently ordered their XLR OCC variant (Xangsane XS-5500 frozen 6N hifi OCC).  Looking at the bulk silver 1105 (stranded) and 9003 (solid).

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256808172657464.html?pdp_npi=4%40dis%21USD%21US%20%24183.35%21US%20%24183.35%21%21%21183.35%21183.35%21%402101effb17394721258575887efdd0%2112000044712418006%21sh%21US%210%21X&spm=a2g0o.store_pc_allItems_or_groupList.new_all_items_2007599416151.1005008358972216&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

I have always preferred solid OCC conductors and my go to cables have been Helix designs (aka WillieWonka).  I remember listening to Neotech years ago and thought they were the really good (could never afford them and ended up buying the cheaper stuff from the likes of VenHaus and Partsconnexion).   Using Viborg and AECO connectors.

With that said, I have deviated from my DIY lane and have the Veritas Argentum X currently installed between DAC and amp.   They are local to me and figured,  would give them a try.  Probably build an Xangsane/Viborg combo to see if compares to the Veritas.

I'll let you know how it goes and would offer to help terminate/assist if you want.