Cardas HP Clear Reflection 2 x 1.5m
Cardas Clear Reflection: the perfect balance between warmth and precision
The speaker cable Cardas Clear Reflection 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 premium materials and proprietary technologies, the Clear Reflection is aimed at demanding audiophiles seeking sound reproduction that is faithful, coherent and deeply musical.
The Cardas heritage: between tradition and innovation
The Clear Reflection holds a special place in the Cardas catalogue. While the Clear line has established itself as a reference in the world of very high-end cables thanks to its exceptional clarity, neutrality and transparency, some audiophiles missed the warm tonal signature of earlier series such as the Golden Reference. It was precisely to meet this demand that George Cardas developed the Clear Reflection, creating a bridge between two eras.
This hybrid approach is not merely a compromise, but a true synthesis that draws on the strengths of each philosophy. The Clear Reflection retains the harmonic richness and sonic fullness that made classic Cardas cables renowned, while incorporating the technical advances of the Clear range for increased definition and precision.
Proprietary technologies in the service of music
The Clear Reflection benefits from several exclusive innovations that define Cardas’s approach to audio signal transmission.
Matched Propagation technology is one of the cornerstones of its design. This approach resolves amplitude distortion and time-delay issues, allowing different frequencies to travel coherently through the cable. The result is a more natural and cohesive sonic presentation, in which transients, harmonics and fundamentals arrive at the ear simultaneously.
Golden Ratio geometry represents another Cardas signature. Conductors of different sizes are arranged according to the proportions of the golden ratio, echoing the spiral of a nautilus shell (the brand’s symbol). This concentric arrangement places the finest wires at the centre, with cross-sections progressively increasing towards the outside. This configuration optimises signal propagation and minimises interference between conductors.
The Tri-Quad structure with 12 11.5 AWG conductors offers a generous conductive 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 Clear Reflection’s build quality reflects Cardas’s commitment to excellence. Every aspect of its construction has been meticulously designed to optimise sonic performance.
At the core of the cable is a Kevlar core that provides mechanical stability and vibration damping. The 12 conductors are made from oxygen-free copper (OFHC) with exceptional 99.9999% purity, ensuring uncoloured signal transmission. Each strand benefits from a transparent SPN (Surface Polished Naked) coating that protects the copper from oxidation while preserving its conductive properties.
The conductors are separated by an anti-static filler that prevents unwanted interactions, then the entire assembly is held together by FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) tape. An inner FEP jacket and a flexible outer TPR insulation complete the structure, providing 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 by a rhodium film for optimal oxidation resistance. These connectors are applied to the cable through a two-stage compression forging process, without soldering, under 10,000 PSI of pressure. This technique completely eliminates the transition between conductor and connector, ensuring perfect signal continuity.
A balanced and musical sonic signature
The Clear Reflection’s sonic performance is characterised by a remarkable balance between tonal richness and analytical precision. Unlike certain cables that favour one aspect at the expense of the other, the Clear Reflection succeeds in reconciling these seemingly contradictory qualities.
The soundstage it creates is impressive for its depth and spatial organisation. Instruments are positioned precisely in space, yet retain their natural substance and dimensionality. Sonic images have weight and depth, avoiding the two-dimensional, ethereal silhouette effect sometimes encountered with other cables.
The midrange is one of the Clear Reflection’s strengths. Vocals benefit from a palpable presence and natural articulation, while instruments are reproduced with their authentic timbre. This crucial region of the spectrum is reproduced with remarkable fluidity and coherence, without artificial emphasis or recession.
The extremes of the spectrum are slightly softened compared with certain more analytical cables, giving the Clear Reflection a fatigue-free listening experience over the long term. The treble nevertheless retains its definition and extension, while the bass offers depth and articulation without excess.
The coherence of the whole is perhaps the Clear Reflection’s most remarkable quality. All musical elements are integrated into a unified presentation in which nothing feels forced or artificial. This consistency allows for relaxed and immersive listening, where attention naturally turns to the music rather than to particular aspects of 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 processing:
- 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
- Bundle bound with FEP tape
- Insulation:
- Inner jacket in FEP tape
- Outer insulator in flexible TPR
Connectors and compatibility
- Connectors: Cardas spades or bananas
- Forged at 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: combines 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 older Cardas cables (notably the Golden Reference) with the transparency and precision of the current Clear range. The other Clear models (Clear Sky, Clear, Cygnus, Clear Beyond) place more 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 optimal performance is reached. During this time, 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 reveals its full potential with audiophile-grade electronics. Its balanced construction and low capacitance make it particularly suitable both for high-power solid-state amplifiers and 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 significant improvements in several areas: coherence of the sonic presentation, precision of the stereo image, naturalness of timbres, and fluidity of dynamic transitions. Vocals gain presence and articulation, while the soundstage becomes considerably wider and deeper. The improvement is not subtle but immediately perceptible, even to non-expert 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 surrounding electronic devices. Nevertheless, as with any quality cable, it is preferable to avoid crossing it with power cables and to maintain a reasonable distance from potential sources of interference.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
