Cardas Clear Reflection Power IEC13 1m
Overview
The result of the marriage between two in-house lineages, this power cable takes up the warm, musical signature of the former Golden Reference series while incorporating the technical advances developed for the Clear range. The Clear Reflection Power sits in the middle of the Cardas catalog, with a construction that shares the conductor cross-section of the Clear Power (three 11.5 AWG strands) but drops the latter’s high-frequency filtering.
A structure designed around the golden ratio
George Cardas, founder of the brand, built his reputation on a principle borrowed from mathematics: the golden ratio (1:1.618). In Cardas conductors, the finest Litz copper strands are found at the center, and each successive layer increases in diameter according to this ratio. This irrational progression prevents the different layers from sharing common harmonic multiples, which limits mechanical resonances within the conductor.
The copper used here has a purity of 99.9999% (Grade 1). Each strand receives an insulating urethane enamel coating as soon as it leaves the drawing process, a method typical of Litz cables that prevents copper oxidation and avoids electrical interactions between adjacent strands. The three main conductors, each with a cross-section of 4.17 mm², are twisted together in a triaxial configuration.
Double-layer shielding without active filtering
Where the Clear Power incorporates a toroidal filter and calculated variations in conductor lay length to attenuate out-of-band noise, the Clear Reflection Power takes a more direct approach. Its double shielding (tinned copper in the first layer, magnet wire in the second) protects against electromagnetic interference without additional signal treatment.
Polyethylene air tubes maintain spacing between the conductors and the shielding, while a PTFE tape ensures the cohesion of the assembly. The internal PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) insulation withstands high temperatures and offers excellent dielectric properties. The outer thermoplastic rubber (TPR) jacket provides remarkable flexibility despite the cable’s substantial diameter (15.49 mm).
E-5 connectors and careful finishing
Cardas E-5 connectors terminate this cable with solid copper contacts plated with silver and then rhodium. This combination of metals ensures high conductivity while resisting oxidation over the long term. Crimping and soldering of the connections reduce the risks of mechanical play or contact resistance. The non-magnetic, chrome-treated connector housing contributes to damping mechanical vibrations.
The IEC13 version plugs into standard C14 sockets found on most source components, preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, and converters. High-consumption devices (large power amplifiers) may require an IEC19 version.
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 quality Cardas Litz conductors
- Dimensions according to the golden ratio for optimal transmission
Construction and geometry
- Twisted triaxial configuration
- Polyethylene (PE) air insulation tubes
- Held in place with 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)
- External jacket in thermoplastic rubber (TPR)
- Very high flexibility
- Excellent mechanical resistance
Connectors
- Connector type: IEC13
- 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 in 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 difference between the Clear Reflection Power and the Clear Power?
The Clear Power incorporates a toroidal filter and variation in conductor lay length to attenuate high-frequency interference. The Clear Reflection Power uses the same conductor cross-section but without this active filtering, which gives it a slightly different sonic character, closer to the former Golden Reference.
Is the IEC13 connector suitable for all devices?
The IEC C13 connector plugs into the C14 sockets found on the majority of audio electronics (sources, preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, DACs). High-power amplifiers sometimes use C16 or C20 sockets, which require a different version of the cable.
Why is Cardas copper labeled “Grade 1”?
Cardas manufactures its own copper with a purity of 99.9999%. The drawing process uses diamond dies rather than standard metal dies, which reduces surface contamination. The Litz coating is applied immediately after drawing to prevent any oxidation.
How long does break-in take?
High-purity Litz conductors generally require several dozen hours of operation before reaching their optimal performance. A dedicated break-in box can speed up this process, but normal daily use produces the same results.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.