?Experience with transparent interconnects

[medward0]

Hi all,

I got a pair of Transparent Ultras with the Sophias and I'm sold on the wire. I even brought out my old vintage speakers (DQ10s) to see how they sound and the result was excellent (for them).

So, now I'm considering Ultra or Ref interconnects and choking at the prices (yea, looking for used too).

Are they worth it?

(Of course, now that I've heard the speaker wire, there is no way I would go back....)

[HTSteve]

medwardo,

I have Ultra level in my system (Started with Supers).

One thing I've learned about Transparent is that system synergy is quite important. I have Ultra I'C's and speaker wire across my front. So I would definitely suggest looking to get the total signal path at the same level. It's quite excellent.

My only experience with Transparent Reference is in their power products (power cords and conditioners). They are really reference.

Transparent has an upgrade program. You get credit for your old cables (I believe it's 70% for I/C's). However, as you've noted, the Reference level is good jump up on price. Even used.


Hope this helps.

[Cincy2]

I've been using Transparent speaker cables and interconnects for almost 20 years. They reveal more of what is on your disc than any other cables I have tried (Nordost, Shunyata). If your system is not up to the task, they will reveal those flaws also. Match the quality cable with the capability of the rest of your system and you will never be disappointed. I've used the upgrade program several times. Its a great way to stay "in the family" and increase the level of performance without paying the steep price of admission.

Cincy

[Still-One]

As HTSteve suggests I would go with a complete Transparent loom before upgrading to a higher level on an individual cable or power cord.

[sanji]

I've used Ref, Ref XL and Ref MM2 in my system. Currently have Ref XL & Ref MM2 in my system. IMHO they are worth the price, but then again I'm one of those crazy people who owns speaker cables that are more expensive than the speakers themselves. Only you can answer the question of value. With each step up in the series, you will hear a significant improvement in soundstage, dynamics, air, bass definition. I would definitely get a complete system beginning with Ultra and slowly upgrade. When you do follow the upgrade path, make sure you do the source IC first. If you can work with your dealer to try before you buy, it would be a great option.

[custodian]

Here in the UK, Transparent were the choice for Wilson so I went with Transparent Reference interconnect and speaker cables for years.

About three years ago, the upgrade bug hit when I got the chance to try a few competitors.

Siltech worked much better in my system, making the Transparent sound a touch bloated

[TOGA]

I use Ultra MM2 Series for All IC and REF MM2 SC.
Now have loan Reference IC to compare with Ultra.
My actually plan is the upgrade all IC to Ref XL. But due to stiff price I am looking for an
alternative. Kimber Select or Tara Labs Zero GOLD are what I have to try, already try
AQ WEL.
Agree that each step up the ladder of TR make useful improvement in sonic quality.
But the price they charge for each step up is rather like a rob. Improvement from Ultra
to Reference IC is 5-10% and is negligible without "direct" comparison. Only with direct comparison that you sure will have to pay for Reference. Tonality is the same, the
higher model is more refined, more coherent, deeper low freq. Only that every step up
the ladder you help them pay for Wilson Alexandria in their listening room.
And I am helping them buy new exotic amps by ordering Ref XL IC soon if cannot find
other alternative.
TOGA