Effect Audio Ares S MKii

Disclaimer:​

Today I bring you the review of a premium quality cable from Effect Audio, a brand new to me but that, thanks to Hifigo, I had the opportunity to test. The cable they sent me is the Effect Audio Ares S II, an extremely well-finished and high-quality cable that embarrasses another cable I've tried in this price range. I want to point out that I'm not one to praise the upgrade to quality cables by telling you that you will definitely hear the difference in terms of sound quality. I am one of those who buy cables to make an aesthetic or functional upgrade of an IEM that I particularly like. Think of it like changing the cover of your smartphone.


This is the second series of the Signature series. The names are borrowed from Greek heroes of the past. My version is the cheapest of the 3 variants that differ in color and composition of the cable braids. Mine is pure copper and theoretically only brings a higher conductivity.

Tech specs/strong point:​

• Spec: 26AWG - 8 Wires
• Smelting Process: UP-OCC
• Material & Structure: Single Material Litz Copper with Central Solid Core
• Dual Variant QuantumCopper™
• Sleeve: EA UltraFlexi™ Insulation
• Length: 120cm ± 5cm
• Connection System:ConX 2-pin (Default)
• EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type

Packaging:​

Effect Audio is a high-quality brand, and the packaging is proof of that. It seems, to all intents and purposes, like opening a jewel. Given the price, the representation is more than excellent. There is not much else in the box, to be honest. In this case, I would say that they could definitely do more in terms of versatility.


If we think that 20-40 dollar cables offer different types of connectors, I don't see why not include a modularity also to be able to mount a 3.5mm connector instead of a balanced 4.4mm. Fortunately, on the IEM connector side we have the possibility of changing the connectors with extreme ease, but we obviously have to buy the small adapters for 15 USD per pair. I am nobody to judge the production costs, but I still think that some more accessories or features could be added to the price.

Build Quality:​

The quality of the Effect Audio Ares S II cable is unquestionable; it is impeccably built, and the materials to the touch are exactly as you can perceive from the photos. The 4.4mm balanced connector is very solid, heavy metal CNC machined. The splitter in the middle is of the same material but with two windows where carbon fiber and copper seem to merge together. Premium details that easily increase the final price.


The most expensive part are probably the terminals on the IEM side, which, being modular, can be unscrewed to be changed with other types of connectors. The system is screwed with a sort of custom MMCX connection. The cable, according to the specifications, is of very high purity and since I have no way of denying or confirming it, I limit myself to their specifications. Coating is neither too rigid nor too flexible. A very good cable in all aspects.

Honesty premise:​

I take the liberty of recycling the same paragraph used for the review of the Nebula cable by Letshuoer.


“I start with the premise that some measurements should be made, which I have no way of doing.


Talking about it freely is not the most correct method to demonstrate that the cable is worth the cost. Materially and aesthetically, you have already been able to see from the photos that it is not the thick cable that one would have expected. The thick cables ultimately serve no purpose other than adding weight, but perhaps a little thicker wouldn't have been a bad thing.”


I also want to add that the quality of the Effect Audio Ares S II can certainly be excellent, but as in the world of speakers, you can use the thickest and most premium "python cable" on the market, but inside the speakers or devices to which it is connected (in the part not visible to your eyes), we could easily find the cheapest cable on the market. The same thing goes for IEMs; the external cable is beautiful, but the cable that goes from the small connector to the driver, we can find the least performing cable on the planet.

Does it change the sound?​

Kiwi Ear KE4 + Effect Audio Ares II Cable
So what differences can we notice? Honestly, I would say none. You will notice the biggest differences with the Eartips. What can change from one cable to another is hardly audible to a human ear. With scientific measurements, the results could be identical.


The real difference, in my opinion, is if you switch from an unbalanced power supply to a balanced one. In fact, honestly, the difference I can say I notice is that with a balanced cable, the drivers unlock their full potential. Upgrading the cables, assuming there is no cable made with non-conductive or defective materials, should not present any differences of any kind.


I have tested the Effect Audio Ares S II with the Kiwi Ears KE4, and the difference is audible in terms of the better power supply of the drivers. But it is not an extremely sensitive IEM where you can clearly feel some change.

Testing:​

On the Kefine Klean, the result is the same: better power supply means better bass response and consequently, the sound seems cleaner and clearer. There could also be a placebo effect.


The most refined IEMs in my possession are probably the Simgot EA1000 Fermat, which, in all honesty, does not even need a balanced cable but I wanted to try the combination.


Fixed track "Free Fallin' by Amaria" on repeat with and without premium cable and Simgot DEW4X.


The first direct listening with the EA1000 + Effect Audio Ares S II after a long time surprised me like a child unwrapping his first Lego set at Christmas. I remembered the bass as clearly more neutral and less full and marked. In terms of sound, the Simgot EA1000 driver is truly something unique.


I put the stock cable back on the Simgot and unfortunately the difference is minimal as I expected.


Assuming there are real differences, you would need to have double everything, including ears, to do an immediate A/B test while playing a track.


There is indeed perhaps a better bass response and extra clarity but it could easily be the famous placebo effect or the listener's mind that is convinced of the difference. I repeat that bench tests are needed to establish some difference and I remember that in any case the last section that reaches the driver is made of different material.

Considerations and costs:​

The differences are felt mostly because you switch to a balanced power supply; as I have always done, I will buy cables to switch from 3.5mm to 4.4mm and for an aesthetic factor. The Effect Audio Ares S II is undoubtedly the best cable I own and deserves to be paired with a premium set. When compared to the Nebula cable, I can only say that this one is at least twice as good in terms of build quality.


If I had some advice for premium cable manufacturers, it would be as follows: If non-premium brands and IEM products can include modular cables in the price of the IEMs, I believe premium cable manufacturers can easily create a $200 USD cable that is completely modular, with some options included as direct accessories. Is it worth getting a similar cable? The question depends on the value we give ourselves to money; there is no correct answer for everyone. My answer would be that for $199 I would buy for example, a Letshuoer S12 2024 ED and for sure, if I came from other IEMs, I would immediately notice more sonic differences.


My Simgot EA1000 Fermats definitely seem to sound better but not as if I have unlocked 50% of their latent potential. Without a doubt the best aftermarket cable I have ever owned. But for me, 200 dollars is equivalent to 20 hours of work so you can understand that my evaluation must also take into account my sacrifice to buy a similar product. Those who have economic availability certainly a similar price would not put them in difficulty.

Where to Buy & more information (no affiliations):​

• Effect Audio Official Site
• Hifigo Official Site

Effect Audio Signature series Ares S II IEM Upgrade Cable:

I recently had the opportunity to test the Effect Audio Ares S II upgrade cable(4.4mm), a tour unit received through the Audio Geek Brotherhood group of India. I extend my sincere thanks to Sandeep for arranging this tour for the Indian audiophile community.
Please note that this is my first time reviewing an upgrade cable. I personally have not spent more than $30-$40 on a cable. Reviewing a cable can be a challenging task. Changing the cable immediately from one to another takes time, and the fit of an IEM can change every time we insert it into our ears. However, I have tried my best to maintain consistency and remember the sound of the cable every time I changed it, as the sound difference is not huge, unlike changing an IEM.

*Build Quality* :-
The cable looks and feels premium, with a stylish gold ring towards the connection that adds a classy touch.Although I have a gripe about the 4.4mm plug. It's not gold plated. I mean at this price point there should not be any excuse for not having it gold plated.

*Design* :-
The design is sleek and elegant, giving it a high-end feel. It has a nice shine to it, making it look like a quality product. It's a well-crafted cable that looks great with most IEMs. However, it's surprising that the model name isn't mentioned anywhere on the cable. I also feel that the 2-pin connectors should be thicker for a more stable connection. For example, my Sound Rhyme SR5 kept slipping during long use, whereas the stock cable has a better connection. But that's a general scenario with most of my other cables.

*Comfort & Fit* :-
The cable is comfortable to use and doesn't get in the way during listening sessions. It fits well and feels durable.

*Sound Improvements* :-
Please note that all these changes in sound are marginal but noticeable. Someone expecting night-and-day differences might feel disappointed.

*Bass* :-
The bass becomes slightly boxy, which adds depth but might feel a little off for some reason.

*Mids / Vocals* :-
Vocals sound slightly pushed back, making them less upfront. This could be good if you prefer a relaxed sound, but not ideal if you like prominent vocals.

*Treble* :-
The treble has more detail and resolution, but it can feel a bit rough or sharp at times, which may bother those who prefer smoother highs.

*Soundstage & Imaging* :-
The soundstage feels more holographic, with added height. It's not very wide, but the added height creates a more immersive feel.

*Reverb* :-
This point could be controversial, but I'm writing what I could hear. There's a slight increase in reverb, which gives the sound a richer, more atmospheric quality.

*Price to performance ratio* :-
As mentioned before, this was my first time reviewing any cable, let alone an expensive one. The Ares S II cable offers good value with its premium looks and noticeable sound changes.

*Conclusion* :-
The Ares S II Upgrade Cable is a beautiful, high-quality cable that changes the sound in noticeable ways. However, the slightly boxy bass and sharp treble might not work for everyone. It's best for those who already own their preferred IEM and are looking to change its flavor for fun.

Preface:

The Ares S II were sent to me by @gadgetgod

Do note that I also received all 03 Signature Series II cables from @Ace Bee separately which I've separately reviewed here:

https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/effect-audio-signature-series-2.27660/review/36037/

Also, I’m not a seasoned reviewer, so whatever I say is purely my observation and your results may vary.

I’m not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment’s sound and that’s it.

Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by Effect Audio or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.

My thoughts about cable rolling:

Now, I know the whole 'cables make a difference' thing can be a bit controversial. Honestly, I used to be skeptical myself. I mean, it's just a wire, right? But after trying out a few different cables with my own IEMs, I've come to realize that there can be noticeable changes.

It's not always night and day, and it definitely depends on the specific cable and the IEMs you're using. But sometimes, a cable can bring out qualities in your music that you didn't even know were there. Maybe the bass becomes tighter, the vocals smoother, or the soundstage wider. It's subtle, but it's there.

Technically speaking, it makes sense. Cables do have electrical properties like resistance and capacitance that can affect the audio signal. And the quality of the connectors and shielding can play a role too.

But hey, I get it if you're not totally convinced. It's one of those things you kind of have to experience for yourself. If you're curious, I'd encourage you to try out a few different cables and see what you think. You might be surprised!

Sources used:

• iBasso D16
• RME ADI 2 Pro FS-R
• FiiO M17

IEM used:

• Shanling MG800

Why MG800?

• Balanced Sound Signature: The MG800 starts with a relatively neutral and balanced sound. This provides a clean slate, allowing the nuances of different cables to shine through more clearly. If I used an IEM with a very strong bass or treble emphasis, for example, those inherent characteristics might overshadow the subtler changes a cable introduces.
• Detailed and Revealing: The MG800 is quite detailed and resolving. This allows me to pick up on the subtle ways a cable might affect things like soundstage, imaging, and micro-details. If the IEM itself lacked detail, it would be harder to hear the improvements a high-quality cable can bring.
• Good Technical Performance:The MG800 has a decent soundstage and imaging capabilities, This means I can accurately assess how a cable might impact the spatial presentation of the music, something that's harder to do with IEMs that have a very narrow or congested soundstage.

Test Tracks & Methodology

• Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap: This track is a fantastic choice for evaluating soundstage and imaging due to its intricate vocal layering and use of spatial effects. We'll pay close attention to how the cables affect the placement and separation of the vocal layers and the overall sense of space.
• Keith Don't Go by Nils Lofgren: This acoustic guitar piece will be perfect for assessing the impact on timbre and dynamics. We'll listen for how the cables render the nuances of the guitar's tone and how they handle the dynamic shifts between soft fingerpicking and powerful strumming.
• The Night They Made Love by Marvin Gaye: This soulful ballad will help us analyze the cables' effect on vocal delivery and emotional expression. We'll focus on how the cables portray the nuances of Gaye's voice and the overall intimacy of the song.
• The Chain by Fleetwood Mac: This classic rock track will be useful for evaluating the impact on bass response and overall energy. We'll listen for how the cables handle the iconic bassline and how they affect the dynamics and drive of the song.

MG800's Stock Cable:

• Overall: The stock cable provides a solid foundation for the MG800, delivering a balanced and detailed sound.
  • In "Hide and Seek," the soundstage is well-defined, with Imogen Heap's layered vocals clearly separated and positioned accurately. The spatial effects are rendered with a good sense of depth and width.
  • With "Keith Don't Go," the guitar timbre is natural and well-balanced, with a good amount of detail and texture. The dynamics of the performance are captured effectively, from the delicate fingerpicking to the more powerful strumming sections.
  • In "The Night They Made Love," Marvin Gaye's vocals are smooth and expressive, with a good sense of intimacy. The instrumentation is well-balanced, allowing the vocals to take center stage.
  • "The Chain" has a punchy and well-defined bassline that drives the song forward. The vocals are clear and well-separated from the instruments, and the overall energy of the track is well-maintained.

Effect Audio Ares S II:

• In "Hide and Seek," the soundstage feels slightly wider and deeper, with a greater sense of air between the instruments and vocals. The vocals have a richer, more intimate quality, and the spatial effects are rendered with a greater sense of realism.
• With "Keith Don't Go," the guitar takes on a warmer, more full-bodied tone. The notes have a slightly longer decay, adding to the sense of intimacy and emotion. The dynamic shifts are handled with greater finesse, making the performance even more captivating.
• In "The Night They Made Love," the Ares S II truly shines. Gaye's vocals become more captivating, with a greater sense of depth and emotion. The instruments are rendered with a warmer, more organic quality, creating a more intimate and enveloping atmosphere.
• "The Chain" benefits from a slightly more impactful bass response, adding weight and texture to the iconic bassline. The vocals are smoother and more forward in the mix, and the overall presentation is more engaging and musical.

Key Takeaways:

• Bass: The Ares S II adds a touch of warmth and fullness to the bass, making it slightly more impactful without sacrificing control or definition. This is particularly noticeable in tracks like "The Chain," where the bassline has a more prominent presence.
• Midrange: Vocals and instruments in the midrange benefit from a smoother, more liquid presentation with the Ares S II. This adds to the emotional connection with the music, as heard in "The Night They Made Love" and "Keith Don't Go."
• Treble: The treble is slightly smoother and more refined with the Ares S II, reducing any hint of harshness or sibilance that might be present with the stock cable. This contributes to a more relaxed and fatigue-free listening experience.
• Soundstage: The Ares S II seems to expand the soundstage slightly, both in width and depth. This adds to the sense of immersion and realism in tracks like "Hide and Seek."
• Overall Presentation: The Ares S II leans towards a more musical and engaging presentation, emphasizing warmth, smoothness, and emotional impact. The stock cable, while still excellent, is slightly more neutral and analytical in comparison.

Overall Conclusion:

Ares S II:

• Strengths:
  • Adds warmth and richness to the overall sound.
  • Enhances bass impact without muddying the details.
  • Creates a smoother, more forgiving treble presentation.
  • Improves vocal presence and intimacy.
• Weaknesses:
  • Can sound overly warm with already warm-sounding IEMs.
  • May slightly reduce detail and transparency in some setups.
• Best for:
  • Bright or analytical IEMs that could benefit from added warmth and smoothness.
  • IEMs with a thin or recessed midrange that need a boost in vocal presence.