Cable Comparisons
As always I tested the Quattros with a number of different cables to get a feeling for how well they scale.
Simgot LC7 (USD $69)
The LC7 adds a bit more treble emphasis so the Quattros don’t feel quite as dark, and I notice the upper midrange coming through a bit more.
Though the soundstage is a little deeper and midrange resolution is slightly higher, I can’t notice much improvement to soundstage width, dynamics or bass impact either. Since I prefer the tonality of the stock cable the LC7 feels like a side-grade.
NiceHCK DragonScale (USD $157)
DragonScale expands the stage slightly wider, adds a blacker background & sharper imaging, with vocals in particular being easier to distinguish from instruments around them.
There’s a slight treble boost, but midbass & lower midrange are more prominent with the stock cable which I miss. DragonScale is so stiff below the Y-split that I’d rather stick with the stock cable for its’ superior ergonomics.
Penon ASOS (USD $169)
The ASOS expands the stage in all directions and makes the overall presentation feel like it has a lot more room to breathe. Midrange resolution is higher, and it’s much easier to distinguish individual instruments from one another. Treble is also slightly brighter.
ASOS is a very good pairing, though I prefer the tonality of the stock cable despite its’ more intimate soundstage – musicality feels higher and I tend to toe-tap more.
Effect Audio Code 23 (USD $599)
In this very impressive pairing Code23 makes instruments sound larger, the stage expands in all directions, resolution increases, and treble is brightened but not as much as ASOS does.
Sonically Code23 feels like a direct upgrade from the stock cable since tonality is similar but technicalities are boosted significantly, though Code23’s horrid ergonomics need to be suffered to enjoy them.
Liquid Links Venom (USD $1089)
Venom increases resolution across all frequencies far more than other cables in a way that’s very noticeable, delivers a blacker background with sharper imaging & brightens treble significantly.
The stage is deeper but surprisingly no wider than the stock cable. I prefer the Code23 pairing simply because Venom imparts a metallic tonality on vocals in particular which robs the Quattros too much of what makes them special. A great lesson here that cable synergy with your IEM always trumps price.
Page 1 – Introduction, Packaging & Ergonomics
Page 2 – Sound Impressions & Technical Performance
Page 3 – IEM Comparisons
Page 4 – More IEM Comparisons
Page 5 – Cable Comparisons
Page 6 – Conclusion
Great review Nick. They sound like they are well worth checking out at that price.
Glad you liked it John! They’re the best I’ve heard for this kind of sound under $1000, a very safe recommendation for folks looking for something smooth & warm.