AudioQuest Diamond Ethernet
$1295/0.75m, $1995/1.5m
If you’re using a generic Ethernet cable anywhere in your computer-audio setup, you haven’t heard your system’s potential. Even in a link such as a NAS drive to computer, AudioQuest’s Diamond Ethernet renders a noticeable improvement in resolution and ease. RH
Wireworld Platinum Starlight 8 SPDIF
$1900/1m RCA or BNC
Equipped with high-performance parts like carbon-fiber plugs and OCC-7N solid-silver conductors, Platinum Starlight gave the digital signal the luxury ride it was meant to enjoy—fast, smooth, and effortless. Suitable for top-flight systems, Platinum Starlight 8 ensures you won’t miss a byte. NG
Kimber Kable KS-USB-AG
$2100/1m
Kimber established the widest, most detailed soundstage NG has heard from a USB cable. A cable with strong tonal and micro-dynamic contrasts, it was the embodiment of speed—with a hint of added top-end brilliance and extension—and so revealing only the finest DACs need apply. Candidly, the breadth of its performance would be lost in the entry-level world. NG, 254
Shunyata Research Sigma USB
$2500
Shunyata Research has created a whole host of exceptional products over the years, but the Sigma USB cable just might be its greatest achievement. The Sigma USB delivers a breathtaking clarity that seems to strip away any trace of fog or veiling to more vividly portray instrumental tone color and texture. Timbres are simply more vivid and real sounding, an impression amplified by the Sigma USB’s stunning resolution of space and air around instrumental outlines. The Sigma USB is also outstanding dynamically, sounding quick and clean, but not etched or fatiguing. RH
Shunyata Research Omega Ethernet
$3000/1.5m
Shunyata’s Omega Ethernet cable is expensive, but worth it. The cable is built to extremely tight tolerances, and features Shunyata’s patented technologies including a module that reduces common-mode noise, along with high-purity copper and silver conductors in the company’s own geometry. Terminations are an all-metal design from Germany for superior isolation from outside noise. The sonic result is a dramatic lowering of the noise floor, and with that reduction, greater resolution of fine micro-details that bring an unprecedented level of realism to streamed music. RH
Shunyata Research Omega USB
$3500
This USB cable is much better than any other USB cable RH has heard. It is so good it may even be the most outstanding product Shunyata has produced—and that’s saying something. Omega simply doesn’t have the “chalky” midrange and treble that plagues USB interfaces, replacing that graininess with smooth liquidity. Dynamics are stunning, and the bass extends to the netherworld. RH