Cardas Clear XLR 1m
Overview
Within the Clear range, this interconnect cable occupies a strategic position: just below the Clear Beyond (the flagship product) and above the Clear Reflection. It represents the culmination of research conducted by George Cardas on Matched Propagation technology, patented in 2008 (US Patent 7,674,973). The Clear XLR is part of a product lineage that has moved the American brand on from the Golden Reference series toward a more transparent and analytical approach to audio signal transmission.
A problem solved at the source
The design of the Clear is based on a technical observation: in a conventional audio cable, the electrical signal travels through the conductors at nearly the speed of light, while the dielectric charge (the insulator) moves about 30% more slowly. This time offset causes signal smearing and loss of micro‑information.
Rather than correcting this problem downstream with filter networks or loading coils (as some manufacturers do), George Cardas chose to deliberately slow propagation in the conductors to synchronize it with that of the dielectric. This harmonization is achieved through precise control of the twist angle of the various layers of conductor strands. The result: a cable in which the signal remains coherent throughout its path.
Geometry dictated by mathematics
The Clear XLR uses a three‑conductor equilateral triad configuration. Each conductor is made up of ultra‑fine copper strands (from 41 to 39 AWG) wound around a Kevlar core. The gauges of these strands follow the proportions of the golden ratio (1:1.618), a mathematical constant that George Cardas has used since founding his brand in 1987.
This approach, called Golden Section Stranding, is based on one principle: strands of identical size share the same resonant frequencies and interfere with each other. By using mutually irrational gauges, each strand cancels out the resonance of its neighbor. The manufacturer refers to this as a “silent conductor.”
No‑compromise materials
The copper used is Grade 1, with 99.9999% purity (6N). Cardas is one of the few manufacturers to draw its own copper, starting from billets produced to its specifications by an American foundry. Each strand immediately receives a transparent SPN coating to prevent any oxidation, a technique inherited from Litz conductors used in high‑frequency transformers.
Conductor insulation is extruded PTFE (Teflon) in an ultra‑thin layer. The internal geometry combines antistatic LDPE air tubes, held in place by PTFE tape impregnated with carbon. The outer layer uses PTFE air tubes sized at a 1.618 ratio relative to the central tubes, which suspends the composite shield (tinned copper and magnet wire) away from the signal conductors. The outer jacket is extruded TPR (thermoplastic rubber), giving the cable appreciable flexibility in everyday use.
CG XLR connectors
The standard terminations are proprietary Cardas CG XLR connectors, manufactured in the Bandon, Oregon workshop. These rhodium/gold connectors replace the Neutrik models used on earlier versions and provide an airtight seal that protects the contact points. Each cable is terminated by hand by a team of nine specialized technicians, under the supervision of head terminator Jesus Ornelas, who has been with Cardas since 1993.
Positioning within the Clear range
The Clear range is available in several tiers, from the Clear Sky (entry level) to the Clear Beyond (top of the line). The “plain” Clear occupies the second position, just below the Beyond. Compared with the Clear Reflection (which borrows some traits from the now‑discontinued Golden Reference for a slightly warmer presentation), the Clear focuses on neutrality and transparency. Compared with the Clear Beyond, it offers a four‑conductor construction instead of eight, and an outer diameter of 11.43 mm versus 13 mm.
Technical Specifications
Connectors
- Standard connectors: Cardas CG XLR
Conductors
- Kevlar core with controlled propagation
- Material: grade 1 oxygen-free pure copper, 99.9999% purity
- Construction: ultra-fine with transparent SPN coating (Litz)
- Gauges: from 41 AWG to 39 AWG, sized according to golden ratio proportions
- Geometry: layered with crossed fields
- Insulation: ultra-thin extruded PTFE sheath
Geometry and Construction
- Configuration: 3-conductor equilateral triad
- Antistatic air tubes in LDPE held in place by carbon-impregnated PTFE adhesive tape
- Outer layer: PTFE air tubes sized 1.618 times larger than the central tubes to suspend the composite shield
- Shielding: composite of tinned copper and magnet wire, spaced away from the signal conductors
- Outer jacket: ultra-flexible extruded TPR
Dimensions
- Gauge: 3 × 25.5 AWG
- Outer diameter: 11.43 mm
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Clear and the Clear Reflection?
The Clear Reflection combines elements of the Golden Reference (slight warmth in the midrange) with Matched Propagation technology. The Clear takes a more neutral and analytical approach. The Clear uses three conductors in an equilateral configuration, while the Reflection employs a twisted pair suspended in air with double shielding.
Does the Clear XLR perform just as well over long distances?
Cardas states that the Clear’s performance remains consistent regardless of length. Matched Propagation technology eliminates the differential propagation issues that typically affect long cables.
Does the cable require burn‑in?
Yes. Allow several dozen hours of use for the cable to reach its final tonal balance. Some users employ accelerated burn‑in devices to shorten this period.
Can I use this cable with any equipment?
The Clear is designed for high‑end systems capable of revealing the nuances it preserves. On an entry‑level system, its advantages will be less noticeable, and a model from the Clear Sky or Cygnus range may be sufficient.
Does Cardas manufacture its own conductors?
Yes. Unlike most cable manufacturers who buy their copper wire, Cardas draws its own conductors from copper billets produced to its purity specifications.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.