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This page is currently being updated and the newest feedback is being added, but feel free to scroll down and read. - ST

Alejandro Moreno  

Stealth M-21 Interconnect Cables REVIEW.

I am glad to be able to make a review on this great interconnects that I have found to be the best I’ve ever tried. There is no doubt about Interlink House’s seriousness and dedication to produce real high end cables at reasonable prices. THIS IS CERTAINLY NOT A MARKETING COMPANY and I hope it remains like that!. 

Along with the PGS-3D and GS50-50, the M-21 are “sonic-wise” Interlink House’s best attempt and accomplishment to date (09-2003), thus their top of the line Interconnect Cables. All these cables are called the New Generation.

Technology, geometry and construction techniques applied to all of them are the same. The basic difference amongst them is the internal main conductive material itself. The M-21s main conductor is pure 99.997% certified silver, while the others’ is gold (PGS-3D) and a proprietary alloy of gold and silver (GS50-50).

M-21s have twenty one strands of pure silver wire, each individually insulated with Teflon. Built-in gradual strain relief and 17-layer 3D non-resonant TCTA matrix geometry. As an option, you can also order a special audiophile extended cycle of Cryogenic Treatment for them, which by the way works!

Since subjectivity is always an important factor in music and high end audio systems appreciation and I’d like to keep this review as objective as possible, I’d like first to give you a bit of background about my ears: I am an opera tenor, I am therefore used to listen to live music within dedicated environments, so I hope my comments will serve the audiophile community and music lovers who are interested in these particular high end components. On the other hand, I want to underline that I am not an Electronic Engineer so I’ll leave technical issues and details apart from this review as much as possible and try to focus more on my audition experience, although I very much realize engineering is what made these cable’s existence happen… and I thank Serguei for that!. On the other hand, I think I have enough reference due to I’ve had the pleasure to own several other high-end systems including brands such as Krell, Classé, EAD, Theta, Forté, Proceed, Martin Logan, Celestion, Kimber, Tara-Labs, Audio Magic, NBS, Van Den Hul, Cardas, several Stealths, etc. Actually my previous standard for making this review was Stealth PGS-XL pure gold interconnects.

I got my Cryo-treated M-21s directly from Interlink House. Immediately after receiving them I connected them to the afterwards mentioned system. I first treated the cables with Purist Audio System Enhancer - Rev. B CD, and played it for 5 continuous times before playing any music. This process took all night and helped me also to speed the burn in timeline. Next morning I switched the Plinius SA-250 Mk IVAmp’s bias to Class A to start my critical listening session and waited for 60 more minutes until everything warmed up to its optimal temperature by playing XLO-Reference Recordings “Test/Burn-In” CD (tracks 8 & 9 specifically).

The time had come to see what these new babies could do. To be honest I was a bit skeptical about these cables improving my sound because I’ve had excellent ones with this same system in the past, and didn’t really think a big deal of a change could happen. In the meantime, I selected a few of my personal favorite CDs for critical testing, which I will mention later. I first selected to go with older audiophile selections (16 & 20-bit) and then switched to newer 24-bit recordings.

I started my critical audition with TELARC 80338 CD, The Fantastic Stokowsky, Transcriptions for Orchestra (this is one of the best digital recordings of all times). As usual I decided to receive the first attack with my eyes closed and guess what? I was wrong! I immediately sensed an important transformation had occurred in my system. About 1 minute after Bach’s Toccata & Fugue in D minor (track 1) started I felt and thought I was somewhere else and those were not my machines, so I had to open my eyes to confirm that I was in the same place and yes, I was!

My first impression was that the room had grown by maybe a third of its current size the soundstage was larger, deeper, wider & taller. I also felt A LOT MORE of AIR between all instruments in the orchestra. Then I switched to Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain (track 10), because sometimes is hard for cables to cleanly reproduce this particular track’s detail and dynamics.  I got truly impressed by M-21s capabilities to reveal all the fine details included on this track. This is a heavy orchestrated piece and the cables were able to present all the colors and transients with cleanliness and relaxation I had never heard in the past. Various times I was also able to hear for the first time the Conductor breathing in various passages.

Secondly I played another audiophile classic, POPE MUSIC CD recording of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto #5 (EMPEROR). I picked this one specifically to test how this cables resolve analog-like-sound of a Grand Piano in combination with a full orchestra which again is many times difficult to do for both components but also for cables. What a glorious recording and a performance by the musicians involved.

This true audiophile and music lover recording allows you to appreciate the grand piano’s sonority at its full given that you will be able to clearly perceive the impact produced by the touché over the piano keys and thus the hammers over the piano cords and also the huge associated harmonics.  My ears also captured the surrounding reverberant environment of the Concert Hall as never before, I could even perceive perfectly the hall’s height, not to mention the high degree of detail… REMARKABLE!

Then I passed to HDCD mainly looking for deeper stage images, openness, dynamics, transient response, bass extension, and timbre truth ness.

Recently I found this particular HDCD Asian import of Patricia Barber’s “Nightclub” CD, which I found to be very interesting. In all songs Patti’s voice sounds warm and focused. The only thing I was missing was her presence itself. To the point that sometimes I even felt I was there with her and the other musicians.

The sound of this CD over the M-21s sounded very articulated. The sound of the drums and the bass is really acoustic. The bass player was breathing inspired at all times (but no smell at all) specially on track 7, as it happens many times in real life!. There is also a Steinway Grand Piano on the band that adds a round warm sound, which by the way I felt smaller with other cables (including gold’s). This CD sounds pretty analog over the M-21s.

After that I took out some very dynamic REFERENCE RECORDINGS titles. First I chose TRITTICO (RR-52CD) and played it all. The sound was much RICHER, open, dynamic, articulated and focused than ever before but without loosing detail.

At the same accustomed volume levels, in several passages my speakers could not take what the AMP was sending to them. These cables were really sending MORE INFORMATION to it and thus to the loudspeakers.

Then I played POMP & PIPES CD (RR-58), a true challenge for any sound equipment. Again the sound was richer than with any other cable I’ve owned in the past and I just loved how M-21s presented all the Brass Winds specially trombones and the tuba. The room was shaking with the great organ and I of course I perceived a greater deeper bass extension and detail than ever in the past. OUTSTANDING!

Under the circumstances I had to play RR-92CD, BOLERO. I will simplify by saying I was astonished by these babies ability to manage transients!!! I was literally transported to the Concert Hall and I sensed that air was really being moved! WOW!

To taste M-21s timbre truth ness capabilities specifically I decided to play Artie Shaw’s “Concerto for Clarinet” (RR-55CD). I was truly amazed by the sound of the wood these interconnects are capable to reproduce and also by the amount of subjective air they are able to move. The clarinetist was virtually there playing for me. It is also impressive the huge amount of harmonics this particular instrument and of course the system through the M-21s itself, were able to reproduce.

Finally, I played the classic Bill Evans Trio’s version of “My Foolish Heart” on ANALOGUE PRODUCTIONS APJ 009 because I wanted to move to a different environment and rather being at a bar and this particular track is glorious in every sense to do so! Once again I closed my eyes to receive the music and just loved it and I do not wish to be repetitive... just AMAZING, I was there and they were playing for me only!. 

I wish I had more time to report further on these M-21 babies but unfortunately there are limits to everything, isn’t it? I really enjoyed the critical listening sessions, I learned a lot. This review process took me around 10 calendar days to complete and I am sure I will enjoy my system even more from now on.

SUMMARY:

The M-21s are the finest interconnect cables I’ve ever owned. They are the most Musical, Articulated, Transparent, Harmonically correct, Detailed and Airy analog interconnects I have ever heard out of many I’ve tried.

At the end of the day if cables’ critical mission is basically to pass the right information to interconnected components, then the M-21s are certainly the best to fulfill this major endeavor!

I totally agree with other audiophiles’ perception that these cables is like there is NO cable linking your audio components. There is no sound coloration. These cables will just enable your music system to develop its real potential and thus perform at its very best. Of course if you are looking for fuzzy cable, then I do not recommend to get these ones!

Thank you all for taking the time to read this extensive review. I insist that Interlink House’s M-21accomplishment deserves no less than a serious may be long report like this one, in order to tell the audiophile community that they are here making real high end products at reasonable prices and without the big noise of Marketing Companies, which sometimes don’t even make real high end stuff.

I think Serguei and his team should be very proud of what they are accomplishing! Congratulations guys and believe me you have another loyal happy audiophile customer!

FYI: Nobody is paying me to say what I hereby express, I sincerely mean every single word I’ve written on this review... only a serious audiophile I guess!  

Associated equipment:

·         Power Amp: PLINIUS SA-250 Mk IV (with most recent update by Advanced Audio).

·         RCA linked to Preamp (Single Ended as per Plinius Audio recommendation), with M-21 (Cryo-treated) interconnects.

·         Preamp: PLINIUS M16p.

·         XLR linked to CDP (Balanced as per ML recommendation), with M-21 (Cryo-treated) interconnects.

·         CD Player: MARK LEVINSON 390s CD Processor.

·         Loudspeakers: Joseph Audio RM25si

·         Bi-wire linked to Amp with Stealth Hybrid MLT - as per my own taste and wish jaja!

http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/cables/messages/78061.html

Posted by jurisprudent (A) on June 15, 2003 at 07:42:15

This is a review of the following STEALTH cables and power cords as they appear in my current reference system:

• Stealth M7 from phono to preamp
• Stealth M21 from preamp to amps
• Stealth PGS from CD to preamp
• Stealth Hybrid MLT speaker cable
• Stealth double M7 power cords from amps to Power Conditioner
• Reference system
• Well Tempered Turntable with upgraded arm/Grado Reference II cartridge
• Full Modwright Sony 9000ES CD/SACD/DVD player
• Modified Counterpoint 5.1 preamplifier
• Homebrew EL 34 based monoblocks with Magnequest transformers and Mullard original EL34s
• Blue Circle 1200 Balanced Power conditioner
• Green Mountain Audio Continuum 1.5i speakers
• Room dimensions: roughly 30x18x9

I have spent most of the last two years auditioning cables and power conditioners having finally settled (if only temporarily) on an overall music playback system to my liking. I auditioned at least fifteen different kinds of interconnects, five or six speaker cables and at least as many power cords and conditioners. Among the brands I considered were Audio Magic Sorcerer, Mapleshade, Music Metre, Nordorst, Cardas, Acoustic Zen, Zu, Analysis Plus, Harmonic Technology, RS Cable and more. In each case I had the most well regarded of the manufacturers with the exception of Nordorst as I lacked the means to consider Valhalla.

I came upon STEALTH inadvertently as I was put on to them by an audio acquaintance who was, like me, a professor of philosophy, Tom Patton. We had both owned Oris horns and discovered our shared professional lives accidentally. He had encouraged me two years earlier to contact Serguei of STEALTH once my search began. I had other fish to fry at the time and postponed doing so until my search had in fact been well underway.

Once I contacted Serguei I ordered a pair of PGS for connections from CD to preamp and simultaneously won an auction for an M-7 which I then put between preamp and amp. In time I received an M21 and a four foot pair of MLT speaker cables. The M7 was replaced by the M21 and was moved to the phono/preamp connection in turn replacing a CWS I had bought locally.

Here are my findings: individually and collectively, beginning with the former.

The M7 is a remarkably good silver IC that will strike many as in the same general league as the Acoustic Zen reference. It is smooth, clear, completely coherent, musically satisfying, and altogether lacking in edge. It does a wonderful job of expressing the nuance and inner detail of music. It worked well in every part of the chain, and is an absolute bargain at the price for which it can be purchased on the market. I would not hesitate to wire an entire system with M7. It was in fact the very first silver IC that worked well between preamp and amp for me.

The M21 is a step and a half up from the M7; everything the M7 does, the M21 does better and noticeably so. It is more nuanced and subtle, capable of somewhat greater dynamic contrast, especially micro detail, a completely open window to the music, somewhat faster and slightly fuller sounding. Like the M7 it worked extremely well everywhere in the chain and was the best cable I have used between preamp and amp. This is the single best silver cable I have used. Unlike the Acoustic Zen and Audio Magic, both quite good, it had better focus and control. It was naturally warm and wonderful. It has to be the equal of the very best silver cables available and should be auditioned with the most refined and revealing systems.

The PGS is something special. I have reviewed it elsewhere in this forum and will repeat only the following. This gold interconnect was the single best audio product I heard last year. It is completely devoid of hifi artifacts and comes as close to being unnoticeable as anything I have ever heard in my systems. And I have been engaged in the audio hobby for over 25 years. I am sure there are other outstanding ICs available, and given the system dependence of cables especially, I hesitate to go overboard by declaring this the best -- ludicrous on its face really -- but this is a very special IC that worked best from the CD player to the preamp. I would recommend it primarily in that position and to anyone. Apparently has a newer product that is less expensive and which may supercede it in quality, but this is one part of my system that I see no reason to ever consider changing. It is that good.

The MLT speaker cables are more like the PGS than any other speaker cable I have owned or auditioned. I had good success before it with a number of cables including the best Zu, Satori, the better AP, the very good and underrated Music Metre and the very much underappreciated Straightwire Virtuoso. But the MLT is a different breed altogether. It has a totally black background, and it imparts absolutely no sonic signature of which I am aware. It does this at the same time that it conveys the music coherently and honestly. It is very expensive but incomparably good. Fortunately, I only needed a short run of it.

The STEALTH cables aim for a certain family sound and achieve it. IMHO that sound is the absence of sonic contribution. The goal is to allow the rest of your components to perform to their aspirations, not to correct for weaknesses in them or to balance out the various parts. The silver cables have a sound, however; it is the subtlest version of the very best features we associate with silver cables, speed, detail, layered soundstaging and openness with a certain warmth that is unusual and unusually satisfying. The gold gets closer to the STEALTH ideal. It is utterly natural sounding. If you are looking for an analogy that may work for some. I think of the Magnepan 3.6 speaker as very natural sounding. It sounds like music. To my ears it is a bit veiled and unable to resolve inner detail well. Take the utter naturalness of the Magnepan and add to it the highest resolution of inner detail and you have the PGS. You also have the Hybrid MLT.

I had been very happy with van den Hul Mainstream power cords, but they were too short once I had the monoblocks. It was only natural that I complete the system with STEALTH power cords. They work wonderfully well with the Blue circle power conditioner that is itself a great deal in the audio world. The power cords are sonically most like the M21 interconnect. Coherent, quick, excellent bottom end and transient attack.

Collectively, the STEALTH cabling comes as close to sounding like nothing at all as anything I have (ironically) heard. It requires some system matching. I would not use PGS ICs all over the place, but they make a tremendously synergistic connection with the M21 and with the M7 between preamp and amp. The STEALTH is designed to produce an overall gestalt, and that is to provide full and complete information in a way that never calls attention to itself and aims to bring you what your other components were designed to provide. Of course cables are components too: but the best are anti component components. They are at their best not just when they are invisible, but when they allow the other components to reach their design goals. I don't know that the STEALTH cables are in my system until I remove them and replace them with anything else.

I should add that Serguei is a genuinely wonderful person to deal with. Customer service is very high on his priority list. And he seems to have a real personality, and like the rest of us is extremely opinionated. Frankly, it's refreshingly honest. He's as easy to work with as Roy Johnson of Green Mountain Audio.

I am sure there are any number of wonderful cables. Indeed, I quite enjoyed my time with several of them. No need to bash some of the others that are more about hype and far less about music. But for me STEALTH represents the right design goals and achieves them to a level that is extraordinary and sufficient to make them an outstanding value and a welcome addition to my system, and something I can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone.

I have since departed with the GMA speakers and am now on a quest to try electrostatics and planars. This means a big amp with lots of current. I have recently purchased the Innersound monoblocks and when I receive some electrostatics to play with I will post a follow up to report on the way the STEALTH cables (which will remain unchanged throughout the auditioning of new speakers) work in the new set up

I hope this is helpful

Glenn Hooks 

The cable came today, & it has made a remarkable improvement in my system. I replaced a more expensive copper cable with the Triple Ribbon, & it immediately became obvious that there was more detail, more transient information, & it sounds more lifelike. So, as promised, here is the full review of TR speaker cables: I have three Stealth power cords, & I have been impressed with them, so I thought I would try the Triple Ribbon speaker cables in my secondary system. Although my secondary system is about half the cost of my main system, in some ways it sounded more open than my main system. I thought the difference might be in my speaker cables. In my main system, I had been using a well known brand of copper cables that cost twice what the Stealth Triple Ribbon cost. I needed a longer length, though. No problem, Serguei took back the 6' pair & sent me a 10' pair for a nominal price. After break-in I can conclude that I did not miss my more expensive cables. On the contrary, the TR silver cables are faster, provide more detail, have a more spacious soundstage, & still have bass performance that is exemplary. Plus the customer service is unsurpassed. With a lifetime warranty, I can always exchange them if my needs change. For the price-to-quality ratio, Stealth Triple Ribbon cables are unmatched. If you want state-of-the-art performance at unheard of prices, then you need to check out Stealth Triple Ribbon speaker cables. 

• I use  Tyler Acoustics Linbrook full-range speakers & a Legacy Point One sub.
• My preamp is an Accuphase C-250
• Power amp is Coda11
• EAD Ultradisc 2000 cd & Panasonic DVD H-1000 are my signal sources.

Glen Hooks

Josh Langel

REVIEW OF HAC II

I ordered a power cord for my pre-amp after seeing many peoples reviews on how a high quality power cord made all the difference in the world in their system. I was however of course skeptical. Upon installation of the HAC II power cable onto my pre-amp I immediately noticed under high listening levels the music was much clearer with less bloat containing its composure. The base also seemed deeper and quicker almost as if I raised the dampening factor of my amp. Seemed to have a tighter grip on the speakers. The instrument placement also seems more locked in place. Also as hard as it seems to believe as its connected to the pre-amp the volume seemed to be higher as well. Honestly I was pleasantly surprised surprised at how much difference a power cord can make! Josh

Hoang Pham

 I like to give you some feed back on the PGS cable after about 2 weeks of burn in and audition. When I first installed the cables from my Pre/Pro to my amplifier, two things that really strikes me: (i) the brightness of the system mellowed but did not lose the detail at all and (ii) the background is pitch black - no noise. The vocals came out very nice but slightly backward relative to my previous cable which I believe due to the change in the frequency response from the speakers. After about few hours of playing it, I noticed that the mid base was much better and clear with a fast transient response. The low base was also good and not boomy. After two weeks, the cable is performing extremely well and those characteristics also seemed more prominent. Best Regards, Hoang Pham

Richard Makarewicz

I honestly did not believe that power cords would make much, if any difference. I bought them on the basis of reviews, and the belief they can do only good, and no harm.

I bought your power cords as opposed to, say, PS Audio and Zu etc. partly because yours were relatively inexpensive, but mainly because you specifically included some plausible reasoning behind their design and construction, especially the bit about the effects of the earth, or ground wire, and the need to shield it properly.

 After extensive listening tests including using the HAC cords in different configurations, I can honestly say they are simply excellent.  Particularly impressive is the increased clarity and dynamics in my system, especially bass resolution. There is a greater sense of “being there”.

 I have found that it is critical to feed my 2 power conditioners (1 for the phono stage, the other for my integrated amp) with the HAC cords as opposed to feeding individual components except that the 3rd cord, when received, will feed the integrated amp from the power conditioner.  

Great products which do what they claim – thank you.

Regards

Richard Makarewicz
Sydney, AUSTRALIA

Art Chandler

...right out of the box, GS50-50 is the best cable I've heard in my system by a good margin (including Siltech sq88). It has more detail and air than the PGS, by memory of course, not a/b.  Can't wait until it settles in...

I have had your PGS in the past and loved it! I now have a GS50-50 in one position (cdp-pre) and am stunned by it'd neutrality, extension, etc. It's a remarkable cable. I have gone to a balanced system and would like to try a pair of balanced 1m PGS  ic's in the pre->amp position. Keep up the good work. best, Art Chandler

Steven Plaskin

I connected a Cloude Nine PC to each of my amps, and an M-21 Super to my Esoteric UX-1 universal player. The M-21 was superior to the Cloude Nine on the the Esoteric. Music and video both enhanced significantly. I was using a PS Audio Ultimate xStream. Yours are the most musical power cables I have ever used. They allow more information to be heard without the mechanical prominences and grit heard in other cables. The enhanced mid range transparency I heard was startling. I have ordered a Cloude Nine PC for my preamp. Again, the AC cords are wonderful!

Best Wishes, Steve Plaskin

Vladimir (Balcan Audio)

Last week I visited my customer in his house (it was the one who bought M-7speaker cables). He is really pleased with them. His previous speaker cables ware Cardas Golden Reference and I know the sound of his audio system. Now with your speaker cable M-7 the sound is really better! He has power amplifier Chord SPM 4000 and loudspeakers Dynaudio Evidence Temptation. Now the speakers sound as if they got "unstopped", the sound is faster, the midrange is more transparent, the timbre of the acoustic instruments became more natural, incredible holographic stage appeared! I'll try your interconnects too. Vladimir

John Zermani

Dear Serguei: Over the past two months I've replaced almost all my wire with Stealth. I've got a few more Cloude Nine power cords to order from Ted Lindblad, but with Hybrid MLT speaker cable, PGS-3D and Indra interconnects, and 4 full Cloude Nine power cords, I'm a happy guy!! 

I've copied you with the e-mail I just sent to Casey Ng at extremephono.com regarding the Limited Edition phono cable you made for me which arrived yesterday. You were ABSOLUTELY CORRECT when you advised me two months ago to get this cable. I was drawn into the music last night as I've never been before. It is a remarkable achievement; you have advanced the state of the art and that is certainly something to be very proud of. 

Casey: Cold out of the box the Limited Edition beat my thoroughly broken-in Siltech Gen.5 cable in every way. After only one hour it was significantly better than when first installed. I could only get 3 hours on it last night but HOLY COW IS THIS THING GOOD!!!  Goose bumps all over the place!

I have 2 Indra interconnects in my system. The Limited Edition is absolutely the Indra of phono cables. In fact, except for the price difference, I'd swear it IS Indra.

You guys have scored a home run, a touchdown, and a hat trick all at the same time with this thing. Absolutely phenomenal !!

My advice to those with the dough: Get the money to Casey as fast as you can. The Limited edition is your passport from Purgatory to Heaven. If you think that's an immoderate or over-the-top statement, it's only because you haven't heard it yet.

I can't think of anything in my audio chain that's more of a no-brainer, or more cost effective, than the Limited Edition.

You, and Serguei, have my eternal gratitude for making it possible to possess a magic carpet capable of transporting me to any recording venue I choose.

My deepest and most sincere thanks to you both, John Zermani.

Gene DellaSala

Speaker cable face off   http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=2526

Have fun reading this (fortunately) rare example of a naïve, but offensive pceudo-technical approach to high-end cabling  (If everything were indeed about simply resistance, capacitance and inductance, high-end cables in general would not have existed, and we all listened to zip cords – comments are mine, ST)

Rich

Oh boy, I was going to get back to you this morning.
These are superb beyond words! There is a spaciousness to them that is unbelievable. The bass is "just there" & doesn't stand out a separate sound. There is no "digital" sound from bad recordings. I cannot believe an IC could do this to my system. It sounds perfect, like I never need to upgrade anything, ever. I was skeptical before, but these things are so listenable it's not funny. Yep, scary is the word.
Thanks so much for your help. Rich

Jim (Epic Audio) 

More listening, further thoughts.  The tonal quality of the Indra is very good,  the "black" background is exceptional.  The Nordost seems to better in the focus and specificity of the image.  I attribute this to the Cardas RCA's, which MUST go away.  The solo instruments/voices sometimes seem to be in the middle of the orchestra rather than in front.  The instruments seem to "blend" together rather than be separated by space.  

These are observations by using the Indra as a phono cable on my Rockport turntable/Lyra Titan Cartridge combination.  When using the Indra on my DAC it gives the system a "tube like" quality.

  I continued using the Beta Indra Cable while the "real" Indra was breaking-in.  When I put the new (production)  Indra in the system, all the concerns I had about the Beta Cable went away.  It is absolutely WONDERFUL.  I have been "loaning out" the Beta Cable trying to drum up some sales for the Indra.  I definitely did no want to remove the Indra from my reference system.  The potential customers that have tried the Beta Cable have had only the highest praise for the cable (except for the price).  Unfortunately, the $5750 for a 1m pair is a little steep for my customers... Best wishes and good listening.  Jim 

David Leong

I must say that my first encounter with your products have been more than pleasing. Upon recommendations from some friends and acquaintances, they has recommended that I try Stealth's cables and so I picked up your M-21 Super power cord. And let me tell ya, the improvement on my system was dramatic. Everything came alive, fuller, more balanced, better integration, finer details you name it. I will spare you the feedback since I'm sure you already know how good this cable is. I'm running the M-21 between my Krell HTS7.1 preamp and my Pioneer DV-AX10 player with great results. I find my NBS power cords to be better on my power amp to the power conditioner. Anyway, recently I have read (more) wonderful reviews of Stealth cables which have triggered a curiosity on just how good your PGS and M-21 interconnects are. I don't mind spending more for your top models. I'm currently running Tara Labs' The One for all my interconnects. Though I've been very happy with it, curiosity to try another brand has gotten the best of me and since I've been very happy with the M-21 Super power cable, coming back to Stealth is a logical step. I am also considering buying a pair of Monster Cable's Sigma Retro interconnects to match the speaker cables that I'm using now because I have been very happy with the Sigmas and have wired my entire multi-channel speaker system with them now. (prior to that I used Tara Labs Air 1 and Air 2). Another consideration is to try out Discovery Cable's Essence and Virtual Dynamic's Nite. I've had Transparent Super and Ultras in my system and though they were good, I wasn't as happy with them as The One from Tara. Thank you, David

Patrick J. Trosle

Yeap, the Indra cables are fantastic!  I noticed the biggest improvement with CDs that I used to think were thin or poorly recorded.  With the Indra cables, these CDs came alive with detail and warmth that I never knew they had.  In fact, normal CDs sounded more like XRCDs, and XRCDs sounded even better.  After listening to tracks from 20 or 30 CDs last night, I think the biggest difference was with Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" and Elvis's "From Memphis" -- I was blown away!  I tried the Indra with the AZ digital interconnect first, then with the Stealth digital.  In the end, I liked the AZ digital cable better with the Indra -- the AZ had more sparkle and warmth, while the Stealth digital sounded a little soft or muted by comparison, but still good.

Bob Fratta

I just wanted to drop a line in regard to this Indra I.C.You know that the hybred jrs. i had bought are fabulous speaker cables.They are incredibly smooth with great detail,tight bass,nice extention without adding anything to the music.The highs are clean wiyhout taking your head off like some other cables i have used iI have owned many cables in the 35 years of enjoying audio.Many of the cables i have had are very familiar names.I have your hybred jrs. and PGS-3D and put the Indras from the cdp to the pre.I have never heard my system this way,highs are so natural and extended,bass is tighter than i ever had ,the midrange is extremely natural as well as detailed like i have never heard.The stage and tonal sound of instruments deliniates the different instruments so well that you feel you can touch them.In my opinion i think you have made the most natural cable around and i WILL get another set for my amp, Bravo  and Thanks, Bobf     P.S. Ted at Highend Audio was a great help to me in finding these wonderfull cables.

Casey Ng 

The very strange observation I have with Indra. It makes a DRAMATIC improvement for digital audio, but it is not as jaw-dropping with analog (phono stage), in fact, I still cannot find Indra better sounding than the GS50-50 used between the phono and the preamp. Why you think this is so? The digital signal should be more flawed, but Indra adds a realm of realism and makes the sound extremly 3-d, and full of detail (even I used it for my home-theater, and the compressed dolby digital sounds great). In fact, my friend prefers the SCR silver wire you made for me over the Vahalla for his  turntable. But as you know, everyone used the GS50-50 for phono whether tonearm or phono stage, loves it.  The GS50-50 cable is the most lovely cable I have the pleasure to listen to. Compared to M21, PGS (various version), and GS, I think GS is the best: What makes it so different is that I seemed to feel the M21 silver makes the music a bit too fast, always stepping ahead of the beat, and PGS always behind the beat, but GS is exactly following the beat of the music. Then it combines the best of PGS and M21, the sweetness of PGS is preserved, and the detail and extension of M21 are there too. Let me know if you have more question. I use BAT VK5Se running GS into ATC SCM50ASL. Tonearm cable is also GS50-50, and phono to preamp is M21. I love to convert every cables I have into GS, when funds permit. Casey

Jeff Catalano

I have been moving things in and out recently, therefore all my comments on the Indra are based on the fore mentioned.

The sonic signature no matter where I have placed them is the same, maybe to the of degree is the only difference. They are incredibly fast and revealing is my initial impression. This makes for an engaging and exciting listening experience. They also are somewhat light in weight and a bit on the brighter side. This is by no means a negative, just purely an observation. I am sure when they totally acclimate to the system this would be less obvious. The other issue is that all the wire in the reference system is the same. When introducing a different cable, it really sticks out like a sore thumb. This usually proves a negative, not so with the Indra. I had much more positives than negatives. I am one of those people who do not believe in mixing and matching cables. I think it is important that if a system is to sing with one voice, the cables should be from the same family. I hope you don't take offense to this but, The Indra is the state of the art Nordost that Nordost wishes they could make. Best Wishes, Jeff

Zig Shuster

...Just an update with 200++ hours...the cables went through some interesting break in but settled in very nicely after less than 50 hours and are still “blooming” and improving, if that’s possible. The balanced PGS have really opened up the soundstage...wider, deeper front to back, better channel separation and are VERY natural and VERY smooth...full and effortless...they have made a most pleasant and substantial improvement to the overall sound of my system...they have very real presence and mid-range command...

as you know, I bought a Premier Varidig AES/EBU and liked the way that cable added detail and clarity at the top and made the low end “growl” with more depth and detail when it replaced my Coincident AES/EBU which I liked very much, but seemed much darker at the top, especially by comparison...

my only question to you is how the new generation PGS, GS 50/50 and M21’s would compare to this generation PGS I have with regard to detail at the very top and the very bottom...while  I may not have all the “audiophile terminology” at hand, and smoothed/rolled out may not be correct, there is some “articulation”  which could make these even better...the best description I can give you is that at the lowest level the “growl” is suggested, but the ”earth doesn’t move”...this is not a criticism AT ALL...these PGS are a real improvement...it’s just a question whether the newer stuff adds to these improvements...

I’ve sent you my equipment list in our previous exchanges...please let me know if you want me to resend...I also see on your website that you occasionally use beta-testers...please include me in future product evaluations if you need testers... Thanks, Zig

Roberto Petti

The beta Indra cables have been tested extensively in three different (reference) audio systems, including my personal one. The whole process took more than one month, including the break-in periods. The test systems were already deeply optimized (including room treatments, supports and accessories) since they are used to evaluate and develop audio equipment. First of all, let me say the results were fully consistent in the three systems and all people involved in the tests described the effect of the Indra cable on the sound in the same way. I believe this is an important point, allowing a more objective description of the outcome of the tests. In addition, we used many hi-end cables (some of them custom built and optimized for our amplifiers) as control samples. The best word that comes to my mind to describe the performance of the Indra cable is "natural", as opposed to typical hi-fi enhancements and exaggerations. The intrinsic grain usually present in the reproduction vanishes, leaving a smooth and extended sound. The bass range, usually very critical, is as tight and deep as you can expect from your speakers. The interesting thing is that this cable does not change the balance of the systems in any way: it "just" makes everything more liquid and realistic. The soundstage extension and precision and the inner resolution (details) are exceptional, although one does not notice it at first, given the overall life-like presentation. Any of the other (good) cables we used sounded compressed and artificial in comparison. I must admit it was a nice surprise to hear our systems sounding that good. 

The Indra cable makes much more easy to understand the effect of even minor changes in the system, thus providing an effective "tool" to tune the overall musical performance. The choice of supports, cabinets, vacuum tubes or even electrical components like resistors and capacitors becomes then straightforward. If there is a problem anywhere in the system, you immediately recognize it and feel the need to fix it. Clearly, this aspect could turn into a nightmare in either low quality (which is unlikely, given the cost of the cable) or badly assembled systems. For instance we had an interesting experience in one of the test systems, related to this aspect. The whole system was deeply optimized with a given set of (custom) interconnect cables (two pairs between source-preamp and preamp-amp). We first replaced the source-preamp cable with the Indra. Although we obtained a significant improvement, we felt there was a little lack of treble extension (a thing we noticed only because of the very natural overall performance). We then replaced the preamp-amp cable with a second pair of Indra and we went back to the old balance for which we tuned the system. Clearly, there was interdependency between cables and components (probably due to the tuning of the sound). This fact seems to indicate the Indra cable is really neutral and does not alter by itself the overall tonal balance. I wish I could report some flaws, but this is not the case. The only thing I would recommend is to invest some R&D in the study of connectors & soldering (if you have not yet done so). The Indra cable deserves that. From what I've seen you are using Cardas top of the line connectors, which are quite good, but perhaps the use of amorphous alloys or custom designs could further improve the performance. Usually connectors & soldering are the weak point of cables. In summary, the experience with the Indra cable was very positive. None of the other cables we tried could reach its performance and it became our reference. It's very hard to give up such a cable once you have tried it. I'd like to congratulate with you for this exceptional product.

I must admit the more I use those cables and the more I like them. I think they definitely deserve special connectors...

(several months later) ... I had a chance to test the Indra cables with the new STEALTH connectors. The difference with respect to the old Cardas termination is quite clear, although not huge. It's a bit like unveiling further the sound, with enhanced transparency and details. This can be appreciated by switching back to the old pairs. The new terminations seem to strengthen the good points in the performance of Indra cables: lack of compression and life-like overtones and harmonics. I tried to give an extended break-in period to the new cables before the comparison since the old pairs were used for quite a while. I would say the new connectors improve the sound of Indra cables by something like 10-15%, which of course is significant at this level of performance. The mechanical strength of the connection appears fine (the contact with the female RCA is quite firm)...

The experience with your MLT speaker cables is very positive, they are neutral and natural without specific colorations. They outperformed several different cables we used before, although the gap was not as huge as with the Indra cables. I have the impression all of your cables show a similar behavior, in the sense they tend to a common musical presentation. In particular, I appreciate their ability to match high resolution with warmth and body, keeping an excellent balance throughout the spectrum. Did you ever consider to build a dedicated bi-wiring version of MLT in which the lower and upper frequency conductors are optimized separately (for instance taking into account a typical cross-over frequency of 1k-2k Hz)? Do you think it's realistic to use alloys in ribbon configuration or that would make the price unmanageable?

The M21 power cords were tested extensively. The locking IEC connectors (15A) seem indeed a very good solution from the electrical point of view, in spite of the fact they do not look very nice. It seems M21 is an excellent cord for the preamplifier, providing an improved reproduction of overtones and harmonics and increasing the "body" of the sound. Qualitatively, the effect is similar to a change from digital to analogue source, although not as large. I suspect part of the performance is related to the cryogenic treatment and part to the cable construction itself (it would be interesting to check). The use of M21 on the power amplifier gave more contradictory results. I remind you I'm talking about a single-ended triode design based upon the 845 tubes, which is notoriously a topology very sensitive to the power supply. Note it's not at all an "old style" tube amp since it has a wide frequency response and a very transparent sound. The M21 performance it's good in this application as well, but, especially  if a second M21 is used on the preamplifier, it has the tendency to slightly slow down the transient response and to restrict the soundstage (in particular the height). A Elrod EPS3 (standard) power cord (similar retail cost) provided better overall results (and I wanted the M21 to sound better since it's much easier to handle).  However, I want to add a small note here. As you know, it's always possible to improve a given amplifier or system by using more refined parts etc. Of course this can be done only through listening tests. Usually, if one knows live music enough, it is quite clear the direction to go in order to have a "natural" (and not spectacular) presentation. Now, my comments above referred to the use of M21 in a system which was already quite advanced in that direction. However, if we inserted the M21 in systems using less refined parts it could help to reduce the grain in the high frequency region (which is perhaps the most evident effect of compromises in construction).

I've tested the connectors and cables you sent me. A couple of weeks were needed for break-in, during which the performance improved. Your gold over silver plated connectors offer indeed a very low contact resistance (both NEMA and US wall sockets) and their use resulted in a significant upgrade of the AC filter. Subjective effects include increased dynamics and a reduction of the perceived "grain" in the reproduction. The M21 is very quiet when used as the input cable of the AC filter. The Varidig digital cable was tested against the Illuminations Orchid AES/EBU (+ other digital cables) on the digital front-end. Overall, it provided a better timing information (rhythm) for the music and a more focused soundstage. It is also more detailed and extended (yet natural), although at the very beginning it was a bit bright. Overall, my impression is positive, the only thing that could be improved being the subjective bass extension and body. Roberto

Chi-Cheung

From the 1st record I played, the MLT already outperformed the vdH SCS-2. I am very much impressed. I will get back to you with further comments after the cables have been completely break-in.   Chi-Cheung

Michael D Vanek

Just to let you know, my system already uses Stealth cables, I bought these a couple of years ago, a PGS, M7, and a Varidig digital interconnects and I use a set Triple Ribbon and Premier Copper speaker cables to bi-amp the speakers. I thought I try another PGS to replace the M7 interconnect. Your cables are the best. 

Steven Furukawa

Received the cables today and hooked them up immediately. The sound of my system has improved dramatically especially with highs and midrange. The silver ribbon opened up my speakers. It has fuller and clearer sound staging. I heard part of the music that I never hear before The noise level has dropped even further. A great addition to my system and at a great price. Thank you.  Steve

Steve HC

I've had the Cloude 9 and the M7 jumpers installed for several days now (after some external burn-in). It's a smaller integrated system, so I wasn't expecting too much of an improvement -- but all I can say is, WOW... This doesn't even sound like the same system. It sounds incredibly fast. It sounds so good to the point where I think I should have made the European IEC Cloude 9 fit my separates system, instead of my smaller integrated one. I would happily purchase another one for my preamp. It really does sound that good -- I'm going to replace my other pc's.

I am also going to replace my Nordosts interconnects with your cables -- just the M7 jumpers themselves made an improvement in the system -- even more so in my separates one. I can only imagine what some of your higher leveled cables can do. When we spoke on the phone, you told me that a new series of "hybrid" interconnects are being introduced. When can we expect to see them on the market? I am considering the PGS's at this point and would certainly appreciate a comparison between the two models.

In any case, thank you. You really do turn out some wonderful, wonderful cables. I think I've just been convinced to replace quite a few more of my cables...  Best regards, Steve

Ken Hokugo

I can't praise enough about your M-7. I tried Audio Note AN-Vz - yes, the legendary one from Japan - but still M-7 is cleaner and crisp. I 
swear.  Ken Hokugo 

Lanny Ranken

 I recently picked up a pr. of 1M PGS on Audiogon. I can now listen to Karrin Allyson CD: Ballads, at a level with more volume. Seems as if the recording has kind of a sharp edge, but the PGS softens the blow without losing detail and musicality. Is the upgrade to the XL beneficial without losing the refinement I have now? I kind of like it the way it is. ha! I have a chance to buy another pr. or two of PGS from the same party. I need 3 ICs in my chain as I use the Merlin VSMs with the BAM. Do I get more of the same character by going with 3 rather than mix and match? Right now I am using it as the source cable from CD player. I  am having fun listening to the cable. Right now I am using (2) Luminous Synchestra Sig. ICs behind the PGS to good effect, and have a Golden Cross to throw in, which I have not done yet. The PGS has those little micro details, and shadings that I haven't heard before, and the decay of the notes is more sustained. It is a wonderful cable. Lanny

Thomas Wilde

Installed STEALTH true bi-wire and just listened to Midori's playing of the Paganini caprices and my wife, a violist, was quite disappointed. Not with the stereo system, but this is the first time she heard the quality of Midori's playing and heard mistakes and things like strings buzzing and sliding of the fingers instead of firmly placing them on the string. Her opinion of Midori's playing fell considerably, but her opinion of the stereo was one of disbelief. As she put it, Midori was standing five feet away from her playing and she wasn't quite ready for anything that real.  Thomas Wilde

Chris Runte

...this is Chris, the buyer of these cables.

These are the custom ones, M7's or FLRs.

I bought them for a specific reason - I have RCA and XLR inputs, and it appeared that going through XLR, my amplifier might have additional features. Sounds strange, but documentation mentioned an anti-aliasing filter and a handful of other items. So I had to try XLR inputs, even if I'm not running balanced through the system.

Thing is this -- finally got a chance to put them in the system.

I feel like the soundstage just doubled, everything is a ton more expansive, on some recordings it suddenly sounded like an instrument was literally on the other side of the wall, height improved, depth improved, and low level detail improved. Prominent items like voice moved forward a foot or two, but not sacrificing depth, improving it it. Fact of the matter is it was like going from watching a 30" TV to being in a small movie theater.

Now soundstage cues and huge increases in soundstage typically are from phase issues or tricks -- my only question is this -- does phase somehow get inverted or anything change with an RCA -> XLR converter? Could pin location do anything? I'm not technical by any means -- I just want to see if I'm experiencing a side-effect, or if I need to give another pair of them in my system a try!

Regardless of whether its due simply to your cable, to an artifact by mistake, due to the XLR interface on my amplifier, or any combination of the above, I'm extremely happy. The improvement I just received in soundstage size and recording location presence is something I didn't think I could get unless I moved to a new pair of speakers.

Just wanted to send some praise. Chris

Al Descoteaux  

I received the cord and hooked it up to my Classe SSP25 HT preamp/processor. Wow, what a cord!!! The dynamics, openness and detail are impressive. The music sounds more 3 dimensional; the soundstage is muuuuch wider and more forward. It's now easier to locate the instruments in space. This cord replaced an Ensemble Megaflux PC which up until now was my reference PC. Needless to say, not anymore. I am so impressed that I just purchased a three footer from another AudiogoN member. This is an M21 Super that is 3 years old and was cryo'ed by Stealth. I plan to hook this up to my Jolida CD player. Thanks, Al

Sam Chang

After auditioning the Stealth M-21 special, I finally find the Stealth cable in the winner circle in my setup.

I have came across so many different brands of interconnect and never before I felt such a great difference with the Stealth M-21 special interconnect. 

Pro's: Huge sound stage, dynamic, live like sound. highs are refined and bass is very well extended sweet mid range

Con's: None so far (after 20 hours of listening.)

Similar product used: Audio Quest, Nordost, NBS,

Acoustic Zen, Audio Note, Z-cable, Cardas, Stealth,  XLO, Synergistic Research, Gryphon, Transparent, Siltech, DYI silver

Summary:

I've been always searching for the ultimate sound for my setup and switching cables is my last step to bring out the best possible sounding in my system. I was skeptical in my early audiophile days regarding to wires. I've been experimenting with different wires since settled down with my primary components ( speakers, amps, preamps and sources.) The "link" to all the components plays a major role in clarifying signal path. I've spend the past 3 years trying to get the best combination of wires to produce the best sound from Audio Note to Z-cable live. At least over 50different manufactures I tried regardless of price and yet I thought I was pretty much settled on cable until I've used Stealth M-21 interconnects. My original sound prior to M-21 special is already very pleasant.

Musical, dynamic, sweet mids and transparent.

Because of the speaker choice, I thought I was limited to smaller and less "impact" sound stage. ATC SCM10 passive speaker is the MOST inefficient speaker out there regardless of the price and size. To drive and 80db speaker, it requires a lot of research and trial and error on the amp choice. To make a small non-ported bookshelf sounded like a floor standing is a real challenge. I've tried 4 different interconnects from Stealth Audio Cables and it didn't really satisfy my taste. I spoke to the designer Serguei himself from time to time do discuss about his cables and the possibility improvements. Serguei is a very nice gentleman with great patience to listen to my needs. He's always there to offer help on what I'm trying to achieve. I've been asking Serguei about the M-21 since I don't know anyone else have tried it. He gave me a good sonic description of the M-21 and he told me that he can tune it to my needs. This really stir up my curiosity. I then ordered the cryo treated M-21 special from him and give it an audition. I didn't expect too much improvement from my already great sounding system but I was wrong. Once plug in the M-21 special, the magic really happened. I tried it on my second system first just to see how much improvement I get from the other interconnects I had. I was shocked and amazed that the sound stage, imaging, bass extension, and the mids blows away my primary system. This is one big step up from the other interconnects I have tried. Since I also replaced my speaker cable with Stealth Ultimate Ribbon, I couldn't conclude if the improvement is from the speaker cable, interconnect or both. I then plug-in the M-21 special into my primary system just to see the difference. Wow, this is it. My primary system has lit up. The high and low extension are much well defined and less harsh than my previous interconnects. The mids is much full bodied sound with expansive sound stage. I never thought I can ever get bass so deep, tight and defined with the book self speakers but I was  wrong. The M-21 special made the speakers on both system truly disappeared. When I listened to Jazz at Pawn Shop, I felt like I was sitting in the middle of the jazz club right in the 3rd table away from the stage. The sounds are coming all over the place. The M-21 special has great separation of instruments that no other cables I tried in the past could achieve. The refined high extensions is truly airy and enjoyable too. I would expect a bit of edginess from silver but this cable doesn't have any harshness in it. This cable is truly amazing. I did not expect it to work so well just out of box and I wonder how much more improvement I'll get once the cable breaks in.  Thank you Serguei.

Sam Chang from NYC

System I setup:

• CD player: Marantz CD-17 MKII
• Preamp: Counterpoint SA5000 ( 6DJ8 tubes)
• Amp: Lafayette KT-550 7027a tube (55Watt/ch)
• Speakers: ATC SCM 10 ( 80db) with Target R4 stands
• Interconnects:
• Stealth M-21 between CD player and preamp
• NBS King Serpent II between preamp and amp
• Speaker cables: NBS Master

System II setup:

• CD player: Marantz CD-67 SE
• Preamp: Eico HF-85 (12ax7 tubes)
• Amp: Xams MK II B EL84 single ended (6Watt/ch) custom modified by Roger A. Modjeski of Music Reference
• Speakers: Jensen TF-3 vintage Alnico (94.5db) with cement block stands
• Interconnects:
• SONY $20 interconnects between CD player and preamp
• Stealth M-21 between preamp and amp
• Speaker cables:
• Stealth Ultimate Ribbon

Jeffrey Fiori

(Before the Indra: dedicated ground added)  Let me begin by saying I honestly did not expect much from a dedicated ground. My intuition told me this can't make that much of a difference. I began by playing a Cal Collins cd, 'Interplay', Concord 4137-2. A CD I am very familiar with. My reaction was "jaw dropping". I was stunned. ------Warmer, more base, a lot warmer, fuller. I had to listen to 3 songs before I could even write a note on what I was hearing. By song #3" People Will Say", the cymbals on Jake Hannas' drums were clean and clear. I could hear the pick hit the strings on Herb Ellis' guitar. The notes are separated, not blended together. On the guitar duel on song 4 "That's Your Head", You can pick out the 2 guys. They have a separate position on stage. WAY more analog sounding. Warm, smooth. Never heard the voice in intro to song 6-"I Got It Bad" sound so natural and smooth. Very easy to listen to. No fatigue. I have the urge to turn up the volume, and I never listen loud. Played Coleman Hawkins "Soul" , Prestige 096-2 The soundstage depth is so real. Hawkins sax on song 1, "Soul Blues" is clean with no edge. The high notes here will make you cringe. Not now. Just smooth and clear. Kenny Burrell's pick hits the guitar strings. After one hour, I think it has gotten better. after 2 better yet. 

Day 2: Played The LA 4, 'Zaca', Concord, 4130. Song 1, "Zaca", You can heard the hollow body of Laurindo Almeida's accoustic guitar. The clapping is real. The music is taking place in front of me. More detail. Even the cat has positioned herself in front of the speakers in the middle! Again, I swear it's better than day 1. Song 2-"You Can't Go Home Again". Bud Shank, alto sax, starts, very real. Drum hits are real, you can hear the heads as Hamilton hits. Song 3  "A Child is Born", Base and guitar start out together, base is tight, mids from Almeida's guitar are incredible. Song 4----I can not take the time to write. must listen, too much detail.  Played Inya, "A Day Without Rain" Repise. 47426. song 10 'one by one'. I always go to this one when I make a change because it's very hard to resolve the background violins. Not now. They are very clear. Great. I have played a lot more this past week, and the results have been the same, HUGE stage, detail, and depth. The space seems to be the biggest improvement. I don't know the right words, 'reflections, ambiance, what ever, It's all good because I want to listen more. I must say, this seems to be one of the biggest single improvements to my system yet. Who'd thought... 

(Hybrid MLTs and Cloude Nine cords added) 

Hooked up the Mlt's, plugged in the cloud 9, must write! Played Cal Collins, Herb Elllis, 'Interplay' CD. Concord 4137, track 4, That's your Head. Huge sound stage-----It fills the whole front of my room, and deep. I am amazed at the "size" of the performance. It's as if I am in the bar room in front of the stage. It fills the space in front of me. THE BASE. A lot more base, and it's tight. Ray Brown plays base on this CD so you know it's the best, and it's the best I have heard Brown. When Cal Collins and Herb Ellis break into a guitar dual, I started to laugh out loud. The highs are much better too as Jake Hanna's cymbals are crisp and clear with less edge. This rocks. The improvement is on a level with Indra interconnects. Now I wish I didn't have to work tomorrow, I would like to stay up late and listen...

(Indra, two pairs)  

I listen mostly to classic jazz from the 50's 60's and some newer. I listen at low levels. It has required some effort to put a system together that produces all the dynamics of this music at lower levels. My criteria is simple, if I'm listening longer and louder, I'm headed in the right direction. The results that follow are in the right direction. I've listened now to the Indra on 3 systems. In each case I compared the Audio Magic illusion, Stealth PGS-3D, and the Indra. The systems and results are as follows.

System 1

• Denon 1520 CDP
• Harmon Kardon hk580i receiver
• Dynaudio C-4 speakers
• Mapleshade Samson rack, triple point cones under all
• Shunyata Hydra power conditioner.

...Played Zoot Sims/Jimmy Rowles, " Warm Tenor", Pablo 2310. Audio Magic Illusion: Not much music coming through. What did come through become fatiguing after about 15 min. The highs were rolled off. Had an edge. PGS-3D: ' Liquid' is introduced for the first time. Highs now present. The midrange is pleasing, no grit. Took this low-fi system from unlistenable to rather pleasing. The low end improved a little bit but is weak. Sound stage got wider but is not very deep. Drum sticks are present for the first time. The piano now sounds like music. Indra: Cymbals are here! Breath from sax is present. Piano resonates! Some base is coming through. I'm hearing instruments for the first time. Less digital edge. Drum sticks are hitting the drum head. Music for the first time with this system. I get the feeling the cable ' fixed' some problems with the electronics, and left me with their limitations, but presented them in a way that made the system listenable and somewhat enjoyable. Saying a lot considering what we started with. 

System 2:

• Pioneer PD-S95 transport
• Stealth Varidig RCA cryo
• Bremen #1/Shunyata Anaconda
• VAC Signature Mark II pre/Stealth Cloude Nine
• Audio Magic Illusion interconnects
• B&K 220M mono blocks/Electraglide Fatman
• Stealth Hybrid MLT
• Dynaudio C-4/mapleshade cones
• Shunyada Hydra
• Mapleshade Samson rack

Played Sergio Salvatore/John Patitucci, "Always a Beginning", Concord Jazz 4704 Cables compared were between dac and pre-amp Of course I am now listening to way more of everything. This made switching cables more interesting, especially as noted for Indra below. Audio Magic Illusion: Highs rolled off, what is present made me want to do something else after about 10 min. had an edge. This system put the base back in although it is boomy, not tight. PGS-3D: Highs coming though now. Piano makes me smile. Quite pleasing. Biggest difference seems to be the mids to highs. I listen the entire CD without wanting to turn it off. Indra: 2 things have arrived. The music, and the room the music was made in. For the first time I am presented with a music hall (room) in addition to the music. I can more easily forget about my listening room. The piano has volume. The base is now tight. Highs are crisp, clean and powerful but not harsh. The drum head is felt with each hit of the stick. I am excited! Downside: Music sounds a little like reverberation units we had in our cars as teenagers----which delayed the sound to the rear speaker and gave you a sense of a big space. It quickly became fatiguing back then. This did not fatigue, but was not something I would say was good either. 

System 3 Same as above but the B&K's were removed for VAC Signature mono blocks. (Note: The difference in am