Cable Asylum: REVIEW: Extreme Phono Crimson Cable by shermanr@prw.net

Model:	Crimson
Category:	Cable
Suggested Retail Price:	$159.00
Description:	90 deg DIN to RCA (or custom XLR)
Manufacturer URL:	Extreme Phono
Model Picture:	View

Review by shermanr@prw.net on August 31, 2009 at 11:26:51
IP Address: 198.24.6.135 Add Your Review
for the Crimson

As one undergoes the audio evolution process, we end up buying what we hope is a true bargain without an audition. The internet allows us to browse many different cables from hundreds of manufacturers. Enter Extreme Phono.

This web based company specializes in Analog peripheral accesories and cables. They have earned a reputation for excellent quality and competitive prices.

So it came to be that I upgraded to a full function tubed Preamp that uses XLR connectors for the Phono inputs.

In an attempt to bypass the situation in a econo-mode mentality, I took the stock aging Linn RCA phono cable and installed a pair of XLR Male connectors.

The cable somehow did not perform as before the modification I was using Zu XAUS 1 meter phono cable with stellar results, but it was too short for an XLR mod.

I shopped around for a replacement phono cable. I first called the local Linn dealer and they said the LP12 Phono cables from Linn are only terminated in RCA.

As I am the typical middle aged Audio loving vinyl aficionado, I didn't have the $500+ dollars needed to buy a replacement LP12, XLR Phono cable.

I took a wild shot and sent an e-mail to Casey at Extreme Phono. After some detailed information exchange, Casey confirmed he could make a Crimson Cable for me terminated with XLR connectors, and do it for under $200 dollars.

This was my golden chance to reconnect with Vinyl and my new Preamp so off went my payment and in came the Crimson a few days later.

The Crimson is to me the best kept secret in budget Phono cables. Not only does it exhibit an excellent air of quality, for $159 the RCA model cannot be beat.

Specification wise I am not in the know, but audio wise the Crimson is an amazingly transparent cable that offers the budget minded audio aficionado lots of bang for the buck.

As soon as I installed the Crimson into my LP12/AKITO2/GRADO GOLD combination the annoying hum was GONE... and I mean all gone.

My 101 dB Zu Druid speakers will reveal any noise, hum, etc.

Musically I couldn't have done better than the Crimson Phono cable.

I have played already about 15 hours of LP's and I can't find any faults in the performance of the Crimson cable.

I rate this as a Five star for value and Five star plus in sound...

Product Weakness:	None at the price level offered.
Product Strengths:	Value, Quality, Support, Sound, Musicality

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: Atmasphere M60
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Atmasphere MP3
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Linn LP12
Speakers: Zu Druid MK4
Cables/Interconnects: Crimson, Audio Technica
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Rock, Jazz, New Age
Room Size (LxWxH): 13 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments: Sonex and a small area carpet
Time Period/Length of Audition: 1 week
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

Amplifier:	Atmasphere M60
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Atmasphere MP3
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Linn LP12
Speakers:	Zu Druid MK4
Cables/Interconnects:	Crimson, Audio Technica
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Rock, Jazz, New Age
Room Size (LxWxH):	13 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Sonex and a small area carpet
Time Period/Length of Audition:	1 week
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner