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HI-END AUDIO-Cardas Cross Audiophile Speaker Cables (2 meter pair) - $225 (Bend)
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Bend, Oregon. Cash.
When comparing the quality of Cardas Cross and Crosslink cables, it's important to understand they represent different tiers within the Cardas product line, with Cross typically offering a step up in performance from the entry-level Crosslink.
Crosslink:
Target Audience: Crosslink is designed as Cardas' entry-level cable, ideal for smaller systems, entry-level audio systems, AV surround sound systems, and even professional applications like PA and concert systems.
Sound Characteristics: Crosslink is known for being smooth, natural, and detailed, with a balanced sound that avoids harshness often found in entry to mid-level systems or with imperfect digital source material. It offers good bass extension and a more forgiving top-end, making vocals particularly pleasing and natural.
Construction: Crosslink utilizes multi-gauge, Golden Section, Constant Q conductors and features flame retardant EEA and cotton for the dielectric, enclosed in a PVC jacket, making it CL2 rated for in-wall installations. It employs bare copper conductors, making it easier to prepare and use, and is available in bulk for DIY applications.
Cross:
Target Audience: The Cross interconnect is generally considered a higher-performance cable than Crosslink. It is suitable for a broader range of systems, including high-powered preamplifiers and medium-powered amplifiers.
Sound Characteristics: While similar in nature to Golden Cross, the Cross interconnect offers a higher level of refinement compared to Crosslink. Reviews suggest a darker, richer sound with a black background compared to the Crosslink, with clearer detail and better tonal accuracy, especially for instruments like wood and brass. It provides good imaging but may lack some of the ambient detail found in higher-end Cardas cables like Golden Cross.
Construction: The Cardas Cross Power Cord, for example, is a shielded 15 Ampere IEC power cord with 136 discrete conductors for maximum current transfer and a double shield to minimize RFI and EMI noise. It also utilizes Cardas's proprietary Golden Section Stranding, designed to reduce cable resonance for a clearer and more focused sound.
In summary
While both are quality Cardas cables utilizing the Golden Section Stranding and Constant Q principles, the Cross offers a more refined and detailed sound compared to the Crosslink, which is designed as a smooth and forgiving entry-level option. The choice between the two depends on the specific system, sonic preferences, and budget.