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Acoustic Zen Hologram II - best for the $

Hi everyone,

I'm upgrading my system from the Nordost Blue Heaven LS (a bit too forward for my taste), and I have read nothing but positive comments about the Acoustic Zen Hologram II. I have the following system:

Oppo 105 for CD/SACD
Exposure 2010s2 Integrated
KEF LS50 speakers

The description of the AZ sound in the reviews appears to be quite balanced, perhaps a little to the warm side. This is what I'm looking for. So, my question is whether there is anything at $1000 (for 2m) price point that you think is clearly superior to the Hologram II.

I don't have an audio store near me, so I'd have to buy blind and deal with the return as I audition cables. I want to make sure that narrow it down to a very limited number of high quality choices.

Thanks so much for your time, and have a great day!
Scott
smrex13

Showing 1 response by jmcgrogan2

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Hi Scott, welcome to Audiogon. I would say that your assessment of Acoustic Zen Hologram II is pretty accurate. I have owned the Satori Shotgun, Hologram II, and most recently the Double Barrel. I find they are pretty well balanced, a bit on the warmer side, yet not as warm as cables from companies like Cardas. They throw a nice, deep 3 dimensional sound stage too, which I like. If you prefer similar tonal qualities with a more immediate (forward) presentation, the Analysis Plus Crystal Solo Oval 8 may be more your style.

I only recently switched to different speaker cables when I switched from a SS amp to a tube amp. I find the Acoustic Zen a bit too warm with this tube amp.

Happy hunting,
John
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