Cardas HP Clear Reflection (2 x 3.5m) custom-made
Cardas Clear Reflection: the perfect balance between warmth and precision
The Cardas Clear Reflection speaker cable represents a remarkable fusion of two distinct sonic philosophies. A direct heir to the legendary Golden Reference and benefiting from the technological advances of the Clear range, this cable embodies the ideal balance between Cardas’s traditional musical warmth and contemporary transparency. Designed with top-grade materials and proprietary technologies, Clear Reflection is aimed at demanding audiophiles seeking sound reproduction that is faithful, coherent, and profoundly musical.
The Cardas heritage: between tradition and innovation
Clear Reflection occupies a special place in the Cardas catalog. While the Clear line has established itself as a benchmark in the ultra high‑end cable world thanks to its exceptional clarity, neutrality, and transparency, some audiophiles missed the warm tonal signature of earlier series such as Golden Reference. It is precisely to meet this demand that George Cardas developed Clear Reflection, thus creating a bridge between two eras.
This hybrid approach is not a simple compromise, but a true synthesis that capitalizes on the strengths of each philosophy. Clear Reflection preserves the harmonic richness and sonic fullness that built the reputation of classic Cardas cables, while incorporating the technical advances of the Clear range for increased definition and precision.
Proprietary technologies in the service of music
Clear Reflection benefits from several exclusive innovations that define the Cardas approach to audio signal transmission.
Matched Propagation technology is one of the cornerstones of the design. This approach solves amplitude distortion and timing delay issues, allowing different frequencies to travel coherently through the cable. The result is a more natural and cohesive sonic presentation, where transients, harmonics, and fundamentals arrive at the ear simultaneously.
The Golden Ratio geometry represents another Cardas hallmark. Conductors of different sizes are arranged according to golden‑ratio proportions, reminiscent of the spiral of a nautilus shell (the brand’s symbol). This concentric layout places the finest wires at the center, with cross‑sections that gradually increase toward the outside. This configuration optimizes signal propagation and minimizes interference between conductors.
The Tri‑Quad structure with 12 conductors of 11.5 AWG offers a generous conducting surface while maintaining appreciable flexibility. This complex architecture enables balanced signal transmission with minimal resistance and excellent rejection of external interference.
Exceptional construction and materials
The build quality of Clear Reflection reflects Cardas’s commitment to excellence. Every aspect of its construction has been meticulously designed to optimize sonic performance.
At the heart of the cable is a Kevlar core that ensures mechanical stability and vibration damping. The 12 conductors are made from oxygen‑free copper (OFHC) of an exceptional 99.9999% purity, guaranteeing signal transmission without coloration. Each strand benefits from a transparent SPN (Surface Polished Naked) coating that protects the copper from oxidation while preserving its conductive qualities.
The conductors are separated by an anti‑static filler that prevents unwanted interactions, and the whole assembly is held together by an FEP (fluoroethylene propylene) tape. An inner FEP jacket and an outer flexible TPR insulator complete the structure, offering protection, flexibility, and durability.
The terminations deserve special attention: the connectors (spades or bananas) are machined from pure copper, then plated with a thick layer of silver covered with a rhodium film for optimal resistance to oxidation. These connectors are attached to the cable using a two‑stage, solder‑free compression forging process at 10,000 PSI. This technique completely eliminates the transition between conductor and connector, ensuring perfect signal continuity.
A balanced and musical sonic signature
The sonic performance of Clear Reflection is characterized by a remarkable balance between tonal richness and analytical precision. Unlike some cables that favor one aspect at the expense of the other, Clear Reflection manages to reconcile these seemingly contradictory qualities.
The soundstage it unfolds is impressive in its depth and spatial organization. Instruments are positioned with precision in space, yet retain their natural substance and three‑dimensionality. Sonic images have weight and depth, avoiding the effect of ethereal two‑dimensional silhouettes sometimes encountered with other cables.
The midrange is one of Clear Reflection’s strong points. Voices benefit from palpable presence and natural articulation, while instruments are reproduced with their authentic timbre. This crucial region of the spectrum is rendered with outstanding fluidity and coherence, without artificial emphasis or recession.
The extremes of the spectrum are slightly smoother than with some more analytical cables, giving Clear Reflection a fatigue‑free listening experience over the long term. The highs nonetheless retain their definition and extension, while the lows offer depth and articulation without boominess.
The overall cohesion is perhaps Clear Reflection’s most remarkable quality. All musical elements are integrated into a unified presentation where nothing sounds forced or artificial. This coherence enables relaxed, immersive listening, where attention naturally focuses on the music rather than on particular aspects of the sound reproduction.
Technical Specifications
Conductors and Materials
- Conductors: 12 x 11.5 AWG in pure OFHC copper (99.9999%)
- Kevlar core
- High-purity Cardas copper
- Wire treatment:
- Litz wires with clear SPN coating
- Conductor sizes based on the Golden Ratio
- Dielectric material: PFA (perfluoroalkoxy)
Construction and Geometry
- Tri-Quad geometry with 12 conductors
- Anti-static separator between conductors
- Conductors separated by anti-static filler
- Assembly bound with FEP tape
- Insulation:
- Inner sheath in FEP tape
- Outer insulation in flexible TPR
Connectors and Compatibility
- Connectors: Cardas spades or bananas
- Forged under 10,000 psi
- Compatibility: bi-wiring or tri-wiring
Physical Specifications
- Outer diameter: 17.27 mm (0.680 inches)
- Alternative measurement: 1.75 cm
- Conductor dimensions: 12 × 2.2 mm
Sound Signature
- Audio characteristics: a blend of the richness and musicality of Golden Reference with the clarity and transparency of Clear
Patented Technologies
- Crossfield technology (cross field)
- Matched Propagation
- Golden Ratio
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Clear Reflection and other cables in the Clear range?
Clear Reflection stands out for its sonic signature, which combines the warmth and richness of earlier Cardas cables (notably Golden Reference) with the transparency and precision of the current Clear range. The other Clear models (Clear Sky, Clear, Cygnus, Clear Beyond) place greater emphasis on neutrality, transparency, and dynamics, with a more analytical presentation.
What burn‑in period is recommended for Clear Reflection?
Like all high‑quality cables, Clear Reflection benefits from a burn‑in period to fully express its potential. Cardas recommends around 100 to 200 hours of use before reaching optimal performance. During this period, you will notice a gradual opening of the soundstage, refinement of detail, and better integration of the different frequency ranges.
Is Clear Reflection directional?
Yes, Clear Reflection is a directional cable. An arrow printed on the jacket indicates the optimal direction of signal flow, from amplifier to speaker. This directionality results from the asymmetric construction of the conductors and the manufacturing process. Respecting this orientation ensures the best sonic performance.
Is Clear Reflection suitable for all types of amplifiers?
Clear Reflection is compatible with most amplifiers, but it fully reveals its potential with audiophile‑grade electronics. Its balanced construction and low capacitance make it particularly well‑suited to high‑power solid‑state amplifiers as well as more sensitive tube electronics. It does not impose any particular constraints in terms of impedance or load.
What audible difference can be expected compared to standard cables?
Compared to standard cables, Clear Reflection brings a significant improvement in several areas: coherence of the sonic presentation, precision of stereo imaging, naturalness of timbre, and fluidity of dynamic transitions. Voices gain in presence and articulation, while the soundstage becomes considerably wider and deeper. The improvement is not subtle but immediately noticeable, even for inexperienced listeners.
Is Clear Reflection sensitive to electromagnetic interference?
Thanks to its sophisticated construction with anti‑static separators and its Tri‑Quad geometry, Clear Reflection offers excellent immunity to external electromagnetic interference. This resistance to disturbances allows it to be installed in modern home environments without fear of sonic degradation caused by electromagnetic fields generated by nearby electronic devices. Nevertheless, as with any quality cable, it is best to avoid crossing it with power cords and to maintain a reasonable distance from potential sources of interference.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.