So I’ve been checking out the
Cadmus 8 Wire. EA sent a review unit to me to try out in return for my honest thoughts and impressions.
The first thing I noticed is how big and thick the cable seems in relation to the 4 wire. Of course that is going to be the case as this is 8w and not 4w, but nonetheless it does seem more substantial both in the hand and to the eyes. I mean this in a good way though, and for me, just the look of it fills me with anticipation for what it will enhance or bring out in the music. When I first connected it to my IEMs it seemed like it was going to be quite heavy, but I didn’t actually find that to be the case. I do most of my listening sitting down, but I also walked around a fair bit with the Cadmus 8w to check out the weight and I didn’t have any issues at all. Before doing any listening I let the cable burn in for 90hrs (it should have been 100hrs but I was feeling rebellious!)
First up is with the Legend X. My chain was LX> C8w > SP3000 and playing a mix of HD & MQA from Tidal.
The first thing I get from this is a really smooth and relaxing feel to the music. Nothing here is harsh at all, just a cosy enjoyable listen. There feels like a good bit of air around the notes and vocals. I don’t think I’d say a full on 3D aspect, but it’s certainly in that sort of area.
Treble is well controlled with the 8W which for me is lovely as I’m adverse at anything that reaches too high. Even though the LX is known for its bass, it’s no slouch when it comes to the highs, and I have been caught out before with other cable pair ups that just allow too much of those high notes. So basically if you like your highs delivered well but with a bit of grace and elegance then this may be for you. Mids feel a bit richer and fuller than the 4W but I’m still getting some good separation of instruments with space around both these and vocals.
Legend X is of course known for it bass. The bass via the 8W has a good punch and presence, but there was one thing I found that really got my attention and that was the sub-bass. Not only did I feel it in my chest but it continued to linger as though it was stalking me. I’ve not felt sub-bass like this on any other cable I’ve paired LX with, but I really like it. The main song I use to test sub-bass is ‘Limit to your Love’ by James Blake, and this is where I had the ‘wow!’ moment. I’m going to be checking out this sub-bass element a bit more with this cable as I find it quite intoxicating!
Overall a nice pairing with Cadmus 8W and LX.