I have had both the standard and the new "e" version ICs at different times. The "e" sounds more open and focused and perhaps a bit faster (transients) sounding. It is a very good sounding cable, but I will probably be selling mine since I have made a component change and I feel that other cables may be a better match for my set up. As much as I would like to hang on to it, I will likely have a 1.5m "e" to sell for about $525. Watch for the ad.