It’s disappointing to see that, despite the high price, the ARES S cable uses plastic components, such as the cable splitter and chin slider, which undermine the premium feel one would expect at this price point
One of the finest cables I’ve bought thus far. Great quality, great feel and the 4.4 feels dense and stiff.
I usually don’t spend more than $20 to $40 on upgrade cables, so the Effect Audio Ares was disappointing when I had to kind of jiggle it around to get both channels operating without dropouts or interference. Applying a drop of DeoxIT D100L to the 4.4 plug seems to have helped but also the chin cinch is very loose and almost useless. Happily the cable sounds wonderful when working as designed, but having these problems at the price was not something I expected. Probably going to pass on Effect Audio products in the future, sadly. Shipment from Bloom Audio was same day as usual; if the DeoxIT turns out not to have done the trick I’ll be testing Bloom’s return policy for the first time.
Excellent product and very versatile with conx/termx options
At twenty-four gauge by four wires, the copper cable imparts physical integrity yet is lightweight and woven such that it can drape easily. I forget it is there while using it. Sound is flawless and build quality is perfect. I am using the MMCX connectors and they form a tight, solid bond with my SE846 monitors. They inspire more confidence than the stock Shure cable. The Ares S cable is very attractive as well. Finally - the best for last - the terminal connector is unequivocally the nicest I have seen or used on any audio cable of any termination.