Interconnect suggestions for Audio Research Ref 5SE?


Recently acquired an Audio Research Ref 5SE to replace my LS-16.

Had been totally pleased with the open organic sound of WyWire Diamond interconnects with the LS-16 but find the Diamonds to be rather bright with the Ref 5SE, emphasizing the mic and the very top of female vocals.

Have reached out to thecableco.com for a few samples from their library....Shunyata Alpha, Cardas Clear,...amongst others.  I also have a pair of Nordost Valhalla 1's coming from another vendor for consideration.

Really excited about the 'grunt' and more forward sound the Ref 5SE brings to the game as it helps with presentation on the Grand Funk, Allman Bros, John Mayall, etc. I listen to...along with the acoustic, jazz, and classical....that make up my primarily vinyl collection (Audio Research Ref Phono 3, VPI Classic 4, Proteus Transfiguration)

But, so far, am missing the open organic clarity I guess the LS-16 and Wywire brought to the table. 

The Cardas and Shunyata seem a little recessed, the Nordost Frey seemed a bit recessed and analytical. They all resolve the brightness but seem to be holding back everywhere else.

I've been going back and carefully leaving the various cables in place for at least a few days...

looking for suggestions... Kind regards, and thank you in advance!

fanotunes

Are there particular cables folks commonly use with Audio Research?

ghdprentice mentioned Transparent. I’ve also been told Shunyata Research is generally thought to work well with Audio Research…

 

The Cable Company typically pushes Synergistic Research. Second brand they like to promote is Shunyata. My experience with Synergistic is that they color the sound - very open but somewhat artificial top end. I have tried Athmosphere and Foundation. 
Shunyata Alpha was a very matter of fact studio like quality - detailed but somewhat on a cooler side. 
 

I have tried many interconnects and Tyr 2 by Nordost are my favorite. I haven’t tried Valhalla 2. 
I would highly recommend you give Tyr 2 XLRs a try. Very transparent, airy, natural sound that won’t cause fatigue. Great soundstage as well. 
Funny I didn’t like Tyr 2 speaker cables but the XLRs are amazing. 

fanotunes

Another +vote for Transparent cables/cords for the ARC REF 5SE  pre-amp.

 

Happy Listening!

Another ARC owner here recommending Transparent. Get the most expensive set you can afford. You will be very happy with the results.