Gotham Cables AES/EBU digital vs Wireworld Gold Starlight 5...

Posted by jonbee (A) on May 24, 2014 at 16:34:58

I recently switched my main system DAC/pre to the NAD M51 from a tricked out Audio GD C3/Eastern Electric Minimax dac+ with good results. In the process I went from RCA single ended digital ICs to AES/EBU 110 ohm balanced in both of may main systems. I dipped my toes in AES/EBU by buying Gotham Cables GAC-2 cables w/ Neutrik XLRs. This is a very popular digital cable in studios, held in high regard and well priced. A 1 meter cable will set you back about $35!
Comparing the Gotham to my single ended cables of choice(I found the Black Cat Silverstar 75 to be very good, among others) I felt the Gotham to be slightly different, but every bit as good sounding and "accurate" overall. Very acceptable sound quality for me.
I wanted to go upscale a bit and see what the extra $ might buy. I got a good price on the well regarded Wireworld Gold Starlight 5 ($500 list) and gave 'em a try.
Subjectively, the overall soundstage sounds like the focus knob has been turned up a bit. Highs are cleaner and subjectively a bit less prominent, in a good way, I think. Midrange images are also more solid and focused, and subtle details in the "back" of the mix are clearer. Bass is firmer and more dynamic. Not a day and night difference, but pretty audible for me. The overall sound seems a bit warmer balanced and refined. Of course this shift in tonality will work better in some systems than others. It does work well in my system.
Net, it is clear to me the Wireworld is a step up, but of course not proportional to the price. I think the Gothams give perhaps 85-90% of the overall quality for <10% the price, with no serious flaws. I'm perfectly happy using the Gothams in my second system.
Note that the only frame of reference I have is the AES/EBU digital cable from these companies, but I can recommend both of these cables for tryouts at their price points.

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