Cardas Clear Reflection Power 0.5m
Overview
The Cardas Clear Reflection Power represents the culmination of decades of expertise in designing high-end audio cables. This power cable combines the legacy of the legendary Golden Reference series with the technological advancements of the Clear line. Designed for discerning audiophiles, it offers a remarkable balance between Cardas’s signature analog warmth and the crystalline transparency of modern cables. Handcrafted in the United States with premium materials, this power cable subtly yet profoundly transforms the sound reproduction of your hi-fi system.
The Cardas Legacy: Between Tradition and Innovation
The Clear Reflection Power is part of a prestigious lineage, drawing its DNA from the renowned Golden Reference series that dominated the high-end cable market from 1998 to 2010. George Cardas, the brand’s founder, developed for the Clear line a Matched Propagation Conductor technology, patented under US 7,674,973. The Clear Reflection Power represents the perfect fusion of this technical innovation and the classic sonic signature that made Cardas famous.
This cable meets a specific demand from audiophiles: to recapture the warmth and musicality of the Golden Reference cables while benefiting from the advances in transparency and spatial imaging offered by Clear technology. It is thus an ideal link for hi-fi systems installed in acoustically imperfect rooms or for softening speakers with sometimes overly prominent highs.
Sophisticated Construction in Service of Music
The Clear Reflection Power stands out for its meticulous construction and carefully selected materials. Its internal architecture includes three 4.17 mm² (11.5 AWG) power conductors, similar to those used in the Clear Power model. These conductors are made from high-purity (99.999%) oxygen-free copper, processed using Cardas’s exclusive method.
The cable’s internal geometry follows the Golden Ratio principle, a mathematical constant found in many natural structures and, according to Cardas, allows for optimal electrical signal propagation. The three conductors are twisted together to form a triad, held in place by polyethylene air tubes and a PTFE ribbon.
The cable features double shielding made of tinned copper and magnetic wire, providing effective protection against electromagnetic interference. Unlike the Clear Power model, the Clear Reflection Power does not have high-frequency filtering, favoring a direct current transmission. This characteristic gives it a more natural and less filtered response, especially appreciated with power amplifiers.
A Balanced and Musical Sonic Signature
The sonic performance of the Clear Reflection Power is characterized by a subtle balance between tonal richness and precision. It brings a natural warmth and fullness to the midrange reminiscent of the Golden Reference cables, while offering treble extension and transparency inherited from the Clear line.
Users and critics agree that this cable gives audio systems a smoother and more musical presentation. The soundstage gains in width and depth, allowing for more precise instrument placement. Vocals benefit from increased presence and a more natural timbre, while the bass becomes more defined and impactful.
The Clear Reflection Power excels particularly in its ability to soften overly analytical systems without sacrificing detail. It adds a touch of warmth to electronics that might sound clinical or cold, making listening more engaging and less fatiguing over the long term.
Ideal Applications and Compatibility
This power cable proves especially effective when paired with power amplifiers, whether solid-state or tube. Its ability to deliver high current without restriction makes it an ideal partner for energy-hungry amplifiers.
The Clear Reflection Power is also perfectly suited for high-quality preamplifiers, digital-to-analog converters, and analog sources. Its balanced sonic signature enhances the performance of these components without excessively coloring the sound.
For best results, Cardas recommends using this cable as part of a system-wide approach, combining it with other cables from the same range (Clear Reflection interconnects and speaker cables). However, even when used alone in an existing setup, it can bring a significant improvement in sound quality.
Handcrafted Manufacturing and Material Quality
Each Clear Reflection Power cable is handmade in the Cardas workshops in Oregon, USA. Production follows a rigorous process that ensures consistent quality and optimal performance.
The copper used for the conductors is specifically selected for its exceptional purity (99.999%) and undergoes a proprietary heat treatment that enhances its conductive properties. The PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) insulators and ultra-flexible TPR (thermoplastic) outer jacket are chosen for their excellent dielectric properties and durability.
The meticulous construction and attention to detail are reflected in the cable’s flawless finish, recognizable by its black appearance with copper accents that visually distinguish it from the rest of the Clear range.
Technical Specifications
Conductors
- Three power conductors with a cross-section of 4.17 mm² (11.5 AWG)
- 99.999% high-purity oxygen-free copper
- Grade 1 Cardas Litz conductors
- Dimensions according to the golden ratio for optimal transmission
Construction and geometry
- Twisted triaxial configuration
- Air insulation tubes in polyethylene (PE)
- Held in place by polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape
- Optimized structure to minimize interference
- Outer diameter: 15.49 mm
Shielding
- Double protective shielding
- First layer in tinned copper
- Second layer in magnet wire
- Effective protection against electromagnetic interference
Insulation and jacket
- Internal insulation in perfluoroalkoxy (PFA)
- Outer jacket in thermoplastic rubber (TPR)
- Very high flexibility
- Excellent mechanical resistance
Connectivity
- Connector type: IEC15
- High-quality Cardas E-5 connectors
- Solid copper contacts
- Silver / rhodium plated for optimal conductivity
- Soldered and crimped for a perfect connection
Performance
- Exceptional power and dynamics
- Remarkable sonic clarity
- Superior audio performance under all operating conditions
- Excellent value for money for modern technology
General information
- High-performance power cable with Cardas Litz technology
- 99.999% pure copper conductors with proportions based on the golden ratio
- Double protective shielding in tinned copper and magnet wire
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Clear Reflection Power and the standard Clear Power?
The Clear Reflection Power offers a warmer and richer sonic signature than the standard Clear Power, coming closer to the Golden Reference series. Technically, it uses similar conductors but does not have the high-frequency filtering found in the Clear Power. This lack of filtering makes it particularly suitable for power amplifiers that benefit from a more direct power supply.
For which types of equipment is this cable particularly recommended?
This cable delivers excellent results with tube or solid-state amplifiers, as well as with high-quality preamplifiers and digital or analog sources. It is especially beneficial for systems that may sound too analytical or lack warmth, bringing a touch of musicality without sacrificing precision.
What concrete impact can I expect by replacing my standard power cable with a Clear Reflection Power?
The most notable improvements concern tonal richness, soundstage width, and the naturalness of timbres. You will likely notice a smoother and more musical presentation, with more defined bass, more present mids, and treble that is softer yet just as detailed. The stereo image will gain in precision and depth.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.