What are the alternatives for Kimber and Cardas?

Just my 2 cents, as I have used both Cardas Golden Cross and Cardas Golden Reference, I'd have to say the Golden Cross work better for me. The Reference is a bit stale and very neutral, where the Golden Cross has more dimentional and fuller richer lushness... this works for me in certain set ups better than the Reference. I also like the Ensemble cables, especially their interconnect, at least as much as the Golden Cross, but it is not as dark and heavy as the Golden Cross.

While you are looking at the cable co. consider the offerings from Synergistic Research. I have been using them with great results.

You are absolutely right, Ballan, prices don't always go with performance.
Hello Kenscollick, which Synergistic Research series were you using, and in what kinda gear?

I replaced my Cardas (Golden Cross), Kimber (KS-1011), and Harmonic Technology (Magic-Link Two) with Wywires (Hot Sauce). In my system, Wywires produced the most open and the most natural in sound with the truest tonality. They matched the Kimber in clarity but less harsh, and matched the HT in delicacy but far better tonality, especially of cymbals. Though the HT floated the most alluring soundstage of all, cymbals sounded more sharply metallic than they should, which really bothered me. I disliked the Cardas completely as they sounded muffled in my system. But I did have to get the Wywires cooked for optimal sound, especially the long pair (12 feet) from pre to amps.

Here's another vote for WyWires. They were rated #1 in their price category in a recent PFO review. There were some well-known names on the list. So I installed WyWire IC's earlier this week. Thus far what jumps out most is the realism and emotion in the music.
Some cables accomplish this by putting slight veil over the music ... rolling off the highs. Kind of like using a filtering lens on a camera; but with these cable the notes are rounded, yet still maintain detail and "musicality". I feel a bit closer to a live performance. One place where vinyl excels over the best digital is in reproducing the piano (IMHO). High notes from the digital side usually sound a bit "tinkly". These IC's really help tame that while still letting the full weight the notes flow through.

These cables display incredible micro-dynamics and musicality. There is a very good CD for testing dynamics. It's "Gershwin's World" by Herbie Hancock. It has a number of cuts where there are crescendos, then the music fades and gets very quiet. WyWires handled these changes effortlessly. Voices are very natural too. I was listening to Diana Krall "Love Scenes" last night and she sounded so natural and engaging. I've seen her live by the way
... my wife called me a Diana Krall groupie! At any rate, besides the near perfect timbre, what I like most about WyWires is the tonal balance - from top to bottom.

Everything else I've heard seems to be lacking in some area or they over-emphasize something else ... like the high's, low's, or mid-range. With these cables, everything is focused and coherent. Bass is tight and controlled, but still has some punch. Mid-range is present and blends well with everything else. Beyond that, they are very quiet, clear, and clean ... not a hint of grain anywhere. Finally, WyWires have great sound staging with excellent front to back layering. I could sit and listen all day/night.

The company has a 60-day trial period, and cables are custom made. That said, the only real way to know if they'll perform in your system is to try them. Good luck, and happy listening!