Just wanted to share something fun. While working on my ‘Masters of Classical Music’ review series I finally got the opportunity to revisit an old favourite pairing of mine, the Vision Ears VE5 with Lionheart.
I have always said that key to getting the most from an aftermarket cable is to find optimal synergy. It isn’t always the case that the most expensive cable is “the best” because strong synergy can easily provide a better result for personal preferences. A couple of years ago I found that there was very special synergy between Lionheart and the VE5 and even now I still consider this pairing to be one of my absolute favourites.
Funny thing was that I had not heard this pairing in nearly three years and I was wondering if I would feel the same today as I did back when I first heard it. Turns out I do and I might love it even more now than I did back then. Moreover, I recently got the Shanling M8 in for a review and it turns out that this chain has outstanding synergy. I absolutely adore it!
I find this pairing has a unique presentation that I would call “focused”, as if extra attention is being paid to every element. That is why I consider this pairing especially strong at reproducing intimate classical music such as string quartets or concertos. Vivaldi’s
The Four Seasons for instance is astonishingly good, as the solo violins come up with great focus and transparency. Vocals too shine with this pairing and are some of the very best I have heard to date. Crystal clear with just a hint of sweetness to avoid the bite some soprano voices can have. The balance between male and female vocals is outstanding and while the VE5 have a very restrained bass, male vocals still have excellent authority.
My full classical music review will come next month, but after a few hours of listening I was so beguiled that I wanted to share some initial thoughts. I have not used Lionheart much in recent times and always regretted that because it is still very much one of my favourite cables and a very special one in EA’s lineup. A hint of warmth and intimacy while imbuing notes with an organic fluidity, at the same time it adds airiness and a lovely sparkle.