Cardas Clear Cygnus phono 1m

The Cardas Clear Cygnus Phono is the result of decades of expertise in audio cable design. As the successor to the Clear Light, it reflects Cardas Audio’s commitment to innovation and sound quality. Designed to ensure optimal signal transmission, it highlights the nuances and details of vinyl recordings.

Cutting-edge technology serving audio

At the heart of the Clear Cygnus lies synchronized propagation technology, a Cardas innovation that redefines audio signal transmission. This groundbreaking approach addresses a fundamental issue with conventional audio cables: the mismatch between the propagation speed of the electrical signal and the charge in the dielectric.

Synchronized propagation aligns these two phenomena, significantly reducing interference and signal distortion. The result is a sound reproduction of striking clarity, where every musical detail is preserved and transmitted with remarkable fidelity.

This technology relies on a carefully calculated conductor geometry, using proportions based on the golden ratio. This mathematical approach to cable design helps optimize signal propagation and minimize unwanted resonances.

Premium materials for uncompromising construction

The Clear Cygnus spares no expense in the quality of its materials. The conductors are made from 99.9999% pure OFHC (Oxygen-Free High Conductivity) copper, ensuring optimal conductivity and minimal resistance. This grade 1 copper is coated with a transparent SPN (Silver Plated Nylon) jacket, forming a Litz wire that optimizes signal transmission across the entire audible bandwidth.

The cable structure includes four 25.5 AWG gauge conductors arranged in a Star-Quad geometry. This configuration helps reduce electromagnetic interference and balance signal transmission between the left and right channels.

The dielectric, a crucial element in audio cable design, combines PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) and air. This combination offers excellent insulating properties while minimizing capacitive effects that could alter the signal.

A triple shielding wraps the entire assembly, forming an effective barrier against external interference. This multi-layer protection ensures that only the pure musical signal reaches your equipment, free from electromagnetic pollution.

Sound performance that meets expectations

The Clear Cygnus stands out for its ability to transmit an audio signal with remarkable neutrality. Unlike some cables that color the sound, the Cygnus fades into the background, allowing the music to express itself in all its authenticity.

Listeners will appreciate the richness of the details revealed, particularly in the high frequencies where finesse and airiness are palpable. The midrange benefits from a natural presence, reproducing voices and instruments with impressive tonal accuracy.

In the low frequencies, the Clear Cygnus shows a notable improvement over its predecessor. The response is both deeper and more defined, providing a solid rhythmic foundation without ever becoming overwhelming.

The soundstage gains in breadth and precision. Instruments are positioned with increased clarity, allowing for total immersion in the musical space. This quality is particularly appreciated when listening to complex recordings or orchestral works.

Versatility and adaptability

Although specifically designed for phono applications, the Clear Cygnus demonstrates remarkable versatility. It excels in various configurations, whether single-ended with GRMO RCA connectors or balanced mode with Neutrik XLRs.

This flexibility also extends to the available lengths, allowing audiophiles to optimize their setup without compromise. Whether your turntable is close to or far from your preamplifier, the Clear Cygnus adapts to maintain signal integrity.

The option for internal bi-wiring, a new feature compared to the Clear Light, offers advanced users an additional option to refine their audio setup.

A marked evolution from the Clear Light

The Clear Cygnus represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, the Clear Light. The improvements are noticeable both technically and sonically.

The internal structure has been optimized, notably incorporating a more affordable version of the air-tube suspension used in the high-end Clear Beyond cables. This evolution contributes to better signal isolation and reduced parasitic vibrations.

Sonically, the Clear Cygnus stands out with more detailed reproduction and increased richness, particularly noticeable in the low frequencies. The soundstage gains in breadth and precision, offering a more immersive listening experience.

The addition of the internal bi-wiring option expands configuration possibilities, a flexibility appreciated by audiophiles seeking to optimize every aspect of their system.

Technical Specifications

Conductors and Materials

• Conductors: 4 x 25.5 AWG pure OFHC copper (99.9999%)
• Core: Kevlar reinforced
• Treatment: Litz wires with clear SPN coating
• Proportions: based on the golden ratio (1.618)
• Technology: synchronized propagation

Construction and Geometry

• Structure: 4-conductor Star-Quad geometry
• Dielectric: antistatic LDPE (low-density polyethylene) air tubes
• Wrapping: carbon-loaded PTFE tape
• Conductors: braided Litz wire
• Secondary dielectric: PFA / air
• Section: proportioned according to the golden ratio

Insulation and Shielding

• Shielding: tinned copper composite + magnetic wire
• Suspension: oversized PTFE air tubes (x 1.618)
• Insulation: double layer of PTFE tape
• Outer jacket: ultra-flexible TPR
• Protection: double insulation

Connectors

• Default configuration: S-DIN to GRMO or RCA-RCA
• Available options: R-DIN, SME 90° DIN
• RCA connectors: GRMO
• XLR connectors: Neutrik
• Customizations: available on request

Physical Characteristics

• Outer diameter: 9.76 mm (0.384 inch)
• Outer jacket: Alcryn

Audio Performance

• Sound signature: precise detail, non-aggressive
• Bass reproduction: solid and articulate
• Tonal balance: neutral
• Recommended use: ideal for enhancing turntables with musicality and precision