Group test: Analogue interconnects pt2 | |  | < Page 1: IXOS XHA616, QED Audio 2
Page 3: Vivanco SHQ EDP2212, Wireworld Solstice 5² and winner >
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TCI Tiger II
It may be at the entry level of TCI's range, but the 1m Tiger II is nevertheless well-specified for a budget 'quality' interconnect. The silver-plated OFC signal-carrying conductors are arranged in a twisted-pair configuration and insulated by a layer of aerospace-grade polytetrafluoroethene (PTFE, also known as 'Teflon' - yup, the same basic stuff that makes frying pans non-stick. But its properties as an electrical insulator are also excellent!).
Surrounding this is the shielding, which comprises a Mylar-foil wrap followed by a PVC-jacketed braid. Each end - which is colour-coded for channel identification - is terminated in a high-quality gold-plated phono plug that incorporates a finger-grip for ease of insertion or removal. These are 'lockable' - once they're in place, the barrels are screwed for a tight fit. In addition, the central pins of the plugs are 'split' to ensure an intimate fit with the socket.
Sound quality proved excellent, the Tiger II demonstrating a neutral yet controlled character coupled with superbly musical timing.
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Plus points
Commendable build quality, neutral, excellent timing
Minus points
Nothing to complain about in this price range |  |
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Techlink WiresXS 700031
The WiresXS 700031 bears more than a passing resemblance to the Vivanco interconnect. As with the Vivanco - and, for that matter, TCI - the conductors are silver plated OFC. They're insulated with a foam polyethylene dielectric that, according to Techlink, eliminates 'cable-to-cable signal migration'. However, I'm pretty confident the latter is instead the job of the screening - which, thankfully, is of a high standard.
Surrounding the dielectric-enclosed signal core is a dual shield comprising an inner foil wrap and outer silver-plated OFC braid. The machined plugs have gold-plated contact areas for reliable signal transfer and, like those fitted to the TCI, have a split inner pin for good contact with the socket. They're a tight fit - a good thing - but not to the point where they pose any risk of damage to your equipment. Better still, they won't damage your music either.
Treble is as sweet and 'airy' as your source material permits, this positive impression is reinforced by a toe-tapping percussive delivery and a tight, albeit subtle, bass character.
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Plus points
Rhythmic ability and open character
Minus points
Low-end tends towards the subtle | |
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< Page 1: IXOS XHA616, QED Audio 2
Page 3: Vivanco SHQ EDP2212, Wireworld Solstice 5² and winner >
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