MAGAZINE
The six new interconnect cables from Audioquest come in the shape of three different models, each with either RCA or XLR jacks: "ThunderBird", "FireBird" and "Dragon". According to the manufacturer, the exclusive new models are supposed to be the best cables available from Audioquest so far, thus representing another step towards "sonically invisible cables". To achieve this goal, the cables are constructed completely balanced; the double (RCA), respectively triple (XLR) balanced layout is also visible on the exterior of the new cables, which according to Audioquest is due to the fact that the "Zero-Tech" noise dissipation technology could only be implemented appropriately in this way.
"Zero-Tech" describes a special geometry of the cables that is supposed to allow no characteristic impedance by suppressing RF noise via linear noise dissipation. To further suppress noise, the cables carry a "72 V Dielectric-Bias System" – the XLR versions have a double DBS pack – which is also said to minimize time delays, as well as a carbon and graphene mesh-network. In addition, the cables have a special "FEP air-tube dielectric." The new flagship cable, "Dragon," also carries drain wires made of "Perfect-Surface Silver" for further noise dissipation.
All connectors of the new cables, RCA and XLR, are made of special "Hanging-Silver", which sits on "Red Copper". In the "ThunderBird" cables, the connector housings are copper plated, while in the "FireBird" and "Dragon" series, these are silver plated, which is said to provide even better RF drain. The conducting metals are also different: while the strands themslves are made of "Perfect-Surface Copper+" in the "ThunderBird", the solid conductors of the other two cables are made of "Perfect-Surface Silver", which is supposed to minimize distortion, among other things, thanks to its high purity.
All cables are available in lengths between 0.5m and 6m as standard, although other lengths are also said to be possible; all of the following are pair prices for Germany. The "ThunderBird" cables cost between €2300 for 0.5m RCA – and €3100 for 0.5m XLR – and €8900 (RCA)/€11,900 (XLR) for 6m. The RCA versions of the "FireBird" cables come with an MSRP between €4250 (0.5m) and €18,000 (6m), and the XLR versions range between €5150 (0.5m) and €24,000 (6m). The most expensive cables of the new "Mythical Creatures", "Dragon", are available starting at €7250 (0.5m RCA), or €8900 (0.5m XLR); the longest versions are said to cost €32,000 for 6m RCA and €41,900 for 6m XLR.
