By Nick Smith, 17th May 2024
To what lengths are you willing to go for better sound?
Every hobbyist has their own answer, and it isn’t always measured strictly in dollars.
For instance last year Effect Audio released Code 23, an IEM cable many adored for its’ sound but were unwilling to stomach due to its’ notorious stiffness.
The cable I’m reviewing today is nowhere near as cumbersome, but when Penon offered to send me their new Renata in exchange for my thoughts I was reminded of Code 23’s ‘sound above comfort’ approach.
Upon arrival I noted Renata is indeed chunky & heavy, and at USD $269 far from the cheapest cable.
Yet on first listen its’ sonic promise announced itself. There’s good reason big cables like this exist.
So can Renata take your IEMs to the next level? Let’s find out.
Packaging
The USD $269 Penon Renata arrives in a smallish cardboard box, inside is a medium-sized fabric carry case & leather cable holder.
Renata is available in your choice of fixed 4.4mm plug, or modular 4.4/3.5/2.5mm termination. I believe the fixed plug is a high-end copper variant, and will offer better sonic performance than the modular plug.
Interestingly the cable is only available with 2pin connectors, which probably says something about the popularity of 2pin connectors. Penon do sell MMCX adapters as a last resort option.
Ergonomics & Build Quality
Thanks to its’ soft PVC insulation Renata is decently flexible, just not quite as supple as many thick 8 wire cables like the Ares S 8 Wire for instance. At 58.9 grams this is a chunky cable you’ll notice using.
I find the earhooks of thick 2 wire cables like Renata more comfortable than those of heavy 8 wire cables, and love the fact it never tangles. However Renata’s slight stiffness is something I do occasionally notice.
The gold plated carbon-fiber plug, y-split & 2pin connectors are finished attractively, being fairly minimalist but with just enough bling to look quite expensive.
Page 1 – Introduction, Packaging, Ergonomics & Build Quality
Page 2 – Sound Impressions & IEM Comparisons
Page 3 – Cable Comparisons
Page 4 – Conclusion
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