Cable Talk - TRI Grace-S Impressions
[Excludes sonic attributes]
Point to Note
Given the divisive nature of many issues in these forums, particularly cable related issues, I would like to make it clear that this review does not touch on the sonic attributes of cables.
Introduction
The new top of the range cable from TRI. The Grace is a two-core 6N Silver-Plated crystal copper plus 4N pure Copper mix cable.
Shown here, in the middle, flanked by the beautiful standard cable of the TRI I3 Pros on the left, and the lovely standard cable for the TRI Starshines on the right of this photograph.
Description
It comes in various permutations of the following:
On the earpieces connection end, you have the option of two-pin or MMCX.
On the source end, you have the option of, 2.5mm balanced, 3.5mm single ended, or 4.4mm balanced plug options.
With no intention of being a shill for TRI, it is also worth noting that TRI, and other brands, offer various adapters for 3.5mm both single ended and balanced and 4.4mm balanced for even more options.
TRI straight adapters on the left; 6.3mm adapter in the middle; and TRI 90 degree angled adapters on the right, which include the 3.5mm balanced plug adapter.
Packaging
It was only recently that manufacturers sold us cables nicely packaged in a cardboard box with a clear plastic window through which we could admire their product, a few seconds before we tear it all apart. We now get packaging which indicate that manufacturers are more environmentally conscious. In the case of the Grace-S cable what you get is a capacious fabric covered hard case containing your cable.
Impressions
The Grace-S cable is beautifully made and stands out with its silvery white coat.
Seen here entwined with the beautiful standard cable for the TRI I3 Pros.
Out of the box the cable does have packaging kinks, which quickly straighten up. The thickness of the cable is immediately obvious and it feels fairly solid.
The Grace-S has a silver shiny solid metal cable adjuster (or chin slider) and a similar design also metal is used for the wire spliter, at which point a two wire braid is separated into one piece of the cable on each side.
I would not say the cable is light, as it is not, but it feels substantial in hand and engenders confidence in the product.
Grace-S cable seen here gracing my TRI Starlights.
Conclusion
The most appealing point of the Grace-S cable is the aesthetics. They look incredibly good and feel just as good.
Disclosure:
A review sample of the Grace-S cable was sent to me by
@WendyLi for an honest review. I have neither been paid for this or any other review, nor have I been asked, at any point, to submit a positive review of any product at anytime.
As an enthusiast of TRI products, it may be argued that I have an unconscious bias in favour of TRI products. However, from my perspective, I make every attempt to be objective in my assessment of TRI products. In other words if a product fell short of what is acceptable I would not hesitate in making my view known both to TRI and to existing and potential customers.
Note: Unless otherwise stated here, every product here, including TRI products in these photographs are my own and were paid for by me.
Enjoy your music!
