The audiophile world is filled with accessories that can easily take up space without much use. For most audiophiles on a budget, it’s necessary for us to have gear and accessories that serve multiple purposes. For this reason, I’m a huge fan of S&W’s interchangeably designed cables like the Hagen, Vienna, and Linz. Similarly, it’s hard finding .78mm 2-Pin cables that are designed to fit multiple IEMs. The connection can be tricky, and pins are prone to breaking at times. Let’s put the Strauss & Wagner Cologne 2-Pin cable through its paces in the Cologne review.
Design and Features
The design of the Cologne OFC Silver Plated cable exemplifies a blend of practicality and versatility. At its core, this cable boasts a silver-plated copper construction, enhancing signal clarity and audio fidelity. One of the standout features of this cable is its interchangeable terminations. It includes connectors for 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm inputs, offering significant flexibility. This design allows users to seamlessly switch between different audio sources without needing multiple cables or cumbersome adapters. Whether you’re connecting to a high-end DAC/AMP setup on your desktop or a portable device, the Cologne adapts easily to your needs.
Measuring a total length of 120 cm with an 80 cm cable length, this length strikes a balance between usability and convenience. It’s suitable for both desktop setups and mobile use. The cable’s length ensures that users have ample slack to comfortably connect their IEMs to various devices without feeling restricted.
The cable features a 0.78mm 2-pin design, which is a common standard for IEM connectors. This design ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of in-ear monitors, making it a versatile choice for many users. A full list of compatible IEMs is available on the S&W website, providing users with detailed information to ensure that their particular model will work with this cable.
Feel and Appearance
Visually, the cable adopts a minimalist approach, reflecting S&W’s emphasis on functionality over aesthetics. This barebones aesthetic aligns with S&W’s commitment to delivering a high-quality product at a competitive price point. Despite its straightforward appearance, the cable’s braided design adds a layer of comfort and functionality. The braiding not only enhances the visual appeal but also improves the fit of most IEMs. This design choice minimizes friction and helps the cable remain tangle-free, addressing one of the common frustrations associated with headphone cables. The thin profile of the cable contributes to its flexibility and ease of use, ensuring that it does not become an unwieldy or cumbersome accessory.
The cable’s thinness, while advantageous in terms of flexibility, does not compromise its durability. It remains resistant to tangling and maintains a smooth, supple feel that is both comfortable and practical for everyday use. This balance between a sleek appearance and robust functionality makes the cable an attractive option for users seeking an upgrade to their audio setup without sacrificing practicality.
Sound Impressions
No matter whether you’re using high-end or mid-range in-ear monitors (IEMs), the Cologne consistently demonstrates its unique attributes that are quite noticeable. I began testing the Cologne with the Aria 2 and the Bax from TRN. The Aria 2 offers a solid reference point for both critical listening and general enjoyment, but adding the Cologne enhances the overall impact. The mid-bass becomes more pronounced, providing a fuller sound with a bit more resonance and definition, while still maintaining a balanced mix. Individual notes also seem to have greater attack, making details like the plucking of violin strings or the subtleties of a classical guitar more prominent. The bass heaviness of the Bax was still in tact, but I got stronger clarity from high-mids and low treble.
When I switched to the 64 Audio U12t, the most noticeable change was a smoother midrange with a richer low midrange. While the U12t’s clarity remains intact, the Cologne introduces a denser bass that adds more texture and depth to the sound. Additionally, the highs become more detailed and vibrant, which expands the soundstage.
Curious about how the Cologne would perform with mid-range IEMs, I connected it to the Thie Audio Monarch MKII. The pairing resulted in improved channel separation and clearer bass. The sound from the Monarch was cleaner and more refined when used with the Cologne, enhancing the overall listening experience.
The Cologne Cable is available at Audio 46
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