Your friend's description on Nordost sound coincides with my thoughts. I have not tried Heimdall but I have owned the higher-end Nordost Frey XLR interconnect. If you want more dynamics and better bass, consider the XLO Signature 2. The bass on the XLO kills the Nordost. If you want slightly warmer sound but still have good dynamics and bass you can also try Acoustic Zen Silver Reference 2. Haven't heard the Transparent before so can't comment. Good luck in choosing your cable.
