Cable Comparisons
I compared the DragonScale 2 to other cables to get a better feel for its’ characteristics & value.
NiceHCK DragonScale (USD $157)
The obvious comparison to make, these two cables share DNA both sonically & ergonomically.
The biggest difference lies in ergonomics. DragonScale 1 uses what feels like techflex braiding below the Y-split, which is much stiffer. The cable holds its’ shape & annoyingly refuses to bend the way you want, whereas DragonScale 2 is a BIG step up on this front being vastly more supple and pliable.
Sonically they’re similar, tonally DragonScale 2 is slightly brighter yet also more resolving, bass hits deeper and it sounds more open & expansive, and coherent. The sequel’s a significant improvement.
Effect Audio Ares S 4 Wire (USD $179)
Unsurprisingly Ares S is lighter, and its’ earhooks are a bit less bulky & more comfortable as a result.
Tonally Ares S is a little warmer than DragonScale 2, but doesn’t project its’ midrange as far forward or have comparable note weight or dynamics either.
Unfortunately Ares S’ stage isn’t as deep nor does bass have the same impact. DragonScale 2 eclipses it fairly comfortably in most technical areas.
Penon ASOS+ (USD $215)
ASOS+ is marginally heavier but I find its’ non-textured earhooks slightly more comfortable.
To my surprise ASOS+ is not as bright as DragonScale 2, bass doesn’t go quite as deep nor are dynamics as impressive. ASOS+ soundstage is definitely wider, but not quite as deep.
DragonScale 2 feels slightly more resolving with sharper imaging, ASOS+ doesn’t boost treble quite as much yet its’ tonality skews toward the upper midrange & lower treble over the midrange & bass more.
NiceHCK AceOrpheus (USD $258)
AceOrpheus has quite a few fans in the hobby but I haven’t been one of them. It is much lighter than DragonScale 2 but a bit less flexible, though I don’t find the ergonomic differences dealbreaking.
AceOrpheus is a lot warmer with much more midbass, but its’ background isn’t as black nor does it project vocals as far forward. DragonScale 2 has a deeper stage and is brighter with better imaging.
For some reason AceOrpheus seems to enhance midrange resolution at the cost of sounding muffled at other frequencies, and ironically DragonScale 2 looks far more similar to the real PWA Orpheus cable!
Page 1 – Introduction, Packaging, Ergonomics & Build Quality
Page 2 – Sound Impressions & IEM Comparisons
Page 3 – Cable Comparisons
Page 4 – Conclusion
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