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Advice on interconnect choice

Hi All. I would like to ask for your recommendations (and associated impressions) on interconnects. I need a just one pair, which will go from my Marantz SA7001KI (SA8001) player to my Woo Audio WA2 headphone amp / preamp. This will be used primarily with the Sennheiser HD800's.

I am looking for something relatively neutral, but would not mind a little additional warmth and body - a smooth and engaging midrange would be ideal, so long as it does not roll off highs or lack taut bass. I would not want anything cold or lean, nor tipped up at the top.

I currently have the following on the shortlist ($250-$350 used) and would appreciate any advice or experience with these:
- Analysis Plus Solo Crystal
- Acoustic Zen Matrix Reference II
- Nordost Heimdall

Also any suggestions for cables which may meet the criteria (price and sonic character) would be most welcome.

Thanks in advance
X
xenithon
xenithon OP
130 posts
 
Hi there and thanks for the reply - gave me food for thought, especially about the applicability of cables and their sound to dedicated headphone systems.

I have spoken to some Nordost owners who have said that the Heimdall is certainly warmer than other Nordost cables but still quite forward in the mids/highs. The likes of the AP and AZ seem like they would be a better fit. Right now, the AZ Matrix Ref. II's are the primary candidate.

Unfortunately trialing is not really an option. Living outside the US (in Africa) using someone like The Cable Company is not really viable; even if they would allow a trial here, shipping back and forth would be cost prohibitive. Also locally availability leaves much to be desired - there may be "official distributors" but they rarely hold any stock and only import upon order.

Cheers
X
xenithon OP
130 posts
 
Just wanted to add: when I say "warmth" and "body", what I am really aiming for is a full-bodied, smooth sound especially with the likes of female vocals, which forms the majority of what I listen to.
juancgenao
64 posts
 
HI, the analysis plus solo crystal should be your choice
great midrange, full body sound and very good base,
in it's price range can't be beaten,and believe me, I change I/C,s at least twice a year, made the solo crystal my absolute reference, have used I/C,s many times more $$$$$$$
MY 2cents:
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
If you dare to try something NOT audiophile approved, but near the equal of my $6500 MIT Oracle V1.2 IC's, then I may have a solution. Monster Cable Professional makes a microphone cable Cat# SP1000 which comes in 5ft lengths on up. It's cost is $49/IC or $99.98 for a pair! The sound is open, clear, full, extended and warm. Midrange is superbly musical while low bass has tremendous authority. Treble is delicate and brassy. A product like this makes one question the entire cable industry:O) Sweetwater.com is a pro gear outlet that may be able to hook you up.
kabir's avatar
kabir
36 posts
 
Soundstring or Audio Metallurgy which is available on Audiogon auction. I have had great results with either off them.
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