Effect Audio Signature Series 2
(Ares S II, Cadmus S II and Eros S II)
Disclaimer:
I’d like to thank Audio Geek for including me in the Effect Audio Signature Series 2 prototype tour. The cables shared were prototypes and as per my understanding, they could undergo some aesthetic changes before they’re launched for retail sales.
Introduction:
Effect Audio as such needs no introduction, the brand is well established in the audiophile space and I’m personally a huge fan of their cables. Their Fusion 1 and EVO10 are two of my favourite cables. Hence, I was naturally excited to try out their upcoming signature series 2 cables.
What’s new in Signature Series 2:
Firstly, all the Signature Series 2 (SS2 henceforth) will have ConX connectors by default, making them versatile. The SS2 cables will all be 8-wire by default compared to the 4-wire configuration of the previous generation.
The next big change is the implementation of the Solid Core technology from the CODE series of cables. As such, the SS2 cables are designed with focus on improving conductivity and internal geometry of the cable. However, by including the Solid Core tech, the cables offer better resistance to both vibration and corrosion (as per Effect Audio). The trickle down effect of this tech from the Code series to the SS2 makes premium sound more affordable.
Sound Impressions:
Ares S II
Tech Specs:
26AWG 8 Wires
Smelting Process: UP-OCC
Material & Structure: Single Material Litz
Copper with Central Solid Core
Dual Variant QuantumCopper™
Casing: EA Ultra Flexi™ Insulation
Length: 120cm ± 5cm
Connection System:
- ConX
2-pin (Default)
- EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type
The Ares S is known to be warm and the Ares S II retains the same warmth while improving on the vocals and enhancing bass response. Ares S II features what Effect Audio calls Dual Variant QuantumCopper, that essentially uses two distinct types of high purity copper. I tried the Ares S II with Kinera Verdandi and the bass response was excellent. The bass hit deep with excellent rumble. I also felt that the mids sounded more natural and smooth. Vocals sounded divine thanks to the added warmth making the set sounding more analogue.
Cadmus S II:
Tech Specs:
26AWG 8 Wires
Smelting Process: UP-OCC
Material & Structure: Single Material Litz
Silver-Plated Copper with Central Solid Core
Designed with 6 Multi-sized Core Bundles
Casing: EA Ultra Flexi™ Insulation
Length: 120cm ± 5cm
Connection System:
- ConX
2-pin (Default)
- EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type
Just like the original Cadmus S, the Cadmus S II provides a wide soundstage. On the Verdandi too, the Cadmus provided more detail and enhanced the soundstage and separation. Given the excellent resolution of the Verdandi, the Cadmus S II made it sound open and detailed, giving it a grand feel.
Eros S II:
Tech Specs:
26AWG 8 Wires
Smelting Process: UP-OCC
Material & Structure: Multi Material Litz
Silver and Copper Alloy / Pure Silver / Pure Copper Hybrid
Silver Central Solid Core
Designed with 6 Multi-sized Core Bundles
Tri-Element synCompound (TESC™)
Casing: EA Ultra Flexi™ Insulation
Length: 120cm ± 5cm
Connection System:
- ConX
2-pin (Default)
- EA Standard Rhodium Plated Brass Straight Type
The Eros S II was easily the best of the lot as it seemed to combine the effects of both Ares and Cadmus and deliver a lush and open sounding experience. The bass hit deep with excellent rumble, while the mids sounded natural and buttery smooth. The highs were crisp and there was a noticeable enhancement in terms of staging and separation. As mentioned earlier, the Eros S II seemed to combine the effects of the previous 2 cables and provide one grand and immersive listening experience that honestly elevated the IEM to another level.
Eros S II features what Effect Audio calls Tri Element SynCompound that combines 3 materials to deliver exceptional sound quality. As per Effect Audio, Pure Copper provides a strong foundation with powerful, resonant bass and rich tonality, while Pure Silver Solid Core delivers unmatched clarity and precision. The precise ratio of silver-copper alloy is specially engineered to elevate the sound with nuance and distinctive character.
Conclusion:
The SS2 cables are clear upgrades over the previous generation of Signature Series cables, The Eros S II is easily my favourite and I’m definitely looking forward to buy one in the near future.
