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
Obviously, everyone isn't going to agree 100% of the time, different strokes for different folks.
Although I respect fleschler's opinions just because he heard one system with high-end HFC products and replaced all interconnects with a much less costly product doesn't always mean the results will be the same.
Okay. I am excited because I have heard an improvement on a very modest entry-level system. I heard it immediately. And over 72, 200, and more hours, it continues to come into song. As for my literary style...I was a Sports Editor in a prior life. Audio review isn’t much different. Folks defend their Audio positions like rooting for the home team. We build alliegence, and argue with Home team enthusiasm.
To Helix or not?
I have a set of CT-1 Ultimate Reference speaker cables - quite an early version and am debating spending money on upgrading them to the newest Helix version. I am not sure if it has the CT-2 technology.
Can someone wax lyrical on the perceived changes (I assume for the much better).
I must confess I am really quite satisfied with the system with the CT-1 UR speaker cables (treated with Total Contact) as they are....
It is my understanding that the CT-2 technology will replace CT-1 in the future products. As to whether you should upgrade, it not a obvious answer. If you are interested in a trial, your dealer should allow a trial. If it sounds better, then know it will only get better. If is the same...
Sadly I am miles and miles and oceans away from being able to trial anything.
I love the system at the moment with the CT-1 UR speaker cables but just wondered if those that have heard both versions (original and Helix) could chime in with their experiences on the improvement.
I have asked to see whether my upgrade will include the CT-2 technology. Helix I am sure about, the latter not as yet.