Better XLR's

Just received in the mail a pair of Cardas Golden Cross wires that I had Cardas reterminate with their new "Clear" upgraded XLR bits. No idea how they sound, as still trapped at work, but holy sh*t, that's some heavy, impressive, substantial bling hanging off the end of those wires. Don't come cheap, though. Depending on what sort of wires we're talking about, and what you hope to achieve, expect that the endeavor (and your $$) might be better directed to something altogether new. But if we're talking DIY retermination, can't really guess. I've swapped out terminations on DIY wires in the past, and although I found it both fun and satisfying, can't say I heard any real difference in the process.... Your mileage will certainly vary.

It would be interesting to compare the Cardas Clear XLR vs the Xhadow Precision XLR. Xhadow claims these to be "easily the finest XLR in the world". Who knows.

http://www.xhadow.com/page3.html

i have spoken with a new cable manufacturer who does a lot of custom work...he has the option to offer his customers any kind of termination. i like his cables...Sablon Audio...FWIW, has elected to use Xhadows.

I like the Xhadow's also but be warned that the pin diameter is slighly smaller than most others. Also, when inserted into some jacks they don't make a "click". Expensive too.