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Alternatives for Transparent Reference MM2

I am currently using a transparent reference MM2 interconnect (MSB dac to Class A poweramp) and speaker cable.

However, I will be inserting a preamp (ARC Ref5SE) into my system and will need an extra pair of interconnects. As a matter of principle, I only buy cables used since I refuse to take a 50% depreciation hit on an item with 90% margin. First, MM2 (I need 1.5m XLR) rarely show up used, and besides I have to get them matched to my gear, which will set me back another $1K. So I am considering selling my Transparent interconnects and get two pairs of a different brand. I am looking for a mainstream highly respected brand, with a good used market. Target price range is $2000 used per pair. Some alternatives are:

Wireworld Platinum Eclipse
Kimber KS 1136
Tara labs

Has anyone compared these cables with the Transparent MM2? Any other contenders I should be considering?
edorr
jafant
10,525 posts
 
Transparent & ARC are a sonic match!

Happy listening!
thesaint519
162 posts
 
I agree with Jfrech & Jafant. I've owned several high end cables, and am
fixed on TA Reference with an intention to get to XLMM2.
edorr OP
714 posts
 
I tried all Shunyata anaconda zitron signal cables and decided to stick with the incumbent transparents - think they were more musical sounding than the shunyatas (although the shunyatas were more detailed and faster).
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
edorr..congrats...I haven't had any long amount of time with Shunyata signal cables...but I have with Transparent. I can't seem to get away from them either...

A lot of this is system dependent I am sure...anyway...best of luck!
pabrognara
12 posts
 
Dear Edorr,
I´m in the same dillema testing Transparent Reference XL MM2 vx Shunaya Anaconda with ARC REF5. I was hearing Trans XL MM2 today and found the sound a bit metallic in the voices, but the bass was punchier, simply perfect as well guitar which were cleaner and better focused. I only think Anaconda were more smooth. May I know what exactly transparent are you using and price they cost brand new?
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