Whenever there’s a firmware update I have a tendency to drop back to what I was using with 3.8, as each update has needed a degree of tuning to my system. I was initially using a combination of BJC to my switch and then Catsnake from switch to streamer. Then I acquired a Sigma v2, which was indeed a revelation with 3.8.
With 3.13 pretty much settled I thought I’d run through a few combinations, mainly from switch to ND555. I tried BJC, Chord C-stream, Catsnake, Neet 1008 and finally Sigma v2. The Sigma v2 is definitely in another league. So much more refined and natural than the others. It just lets the music flow and really exploits the lower noise levels with 3:13. Even after nearly two years of use it still surprises me how good it sounds.
Exactly what wanted to hear after having paid my dealer today
So curious. My dealer has a Sigma V2 demo cable but holds on to it like his life depends on it. He said it is his favourite cable and the new versions are far too expensive and therefore it is the one demo piece he will not let go..
I’m not sure it makes sense to repeat rumours from other forums about which ethernet cable might be better in general… Especially if you’ve never heard the cable in question in your own system (or at all).
To clear up the misinterpretation, my take on the Alpha-X comes from a full month of listening in my own rig, not rumors. As for referencing discussions from other forums. I don’t need anyone’s permission to bring outside context into a thread. Plenty of members actually find cross referencing community experiences interesting and useful, even if you don’t. I certainly don’t need an okay to cite other community discussions.
I didn’t name or link to any outside site, so there’s no reason to overcomplicate it. The fact remains that I’ve been running the Alpha-X in my own setup for four weeks (and even ordered one last weekend) and that’s the hands-on experience I was sharing. I wasn’t criticizing the Sigma either. I agree ethernet cables make a huge difference, just not as profound as switches or power supplies in my system.
A mate of mine has an Omega but I think the Sigma v2 is slightly better suited to Naim stuff than the Omega is. The Sigma seems to have a lot of the typical Naim characteristics. I’d say the Omega is better on big neutral systems. The other plus is that Sigma v2’s should be very well priced with the Sigma X now out! I know what I paid for mine and it was a bargain!
The new Sigma V2 has arrived. After burning in as my main Internet cable for 4 days, I am now having my first listening with the Sigma V2.
It replaces an Ansuz A2 between switch and Streamer.
The best way I can describe the sound is: beautiful.
It is organic, spatial, full of depth, smooth without harshness. Bass is beautiful - structured and defined.
Particularly with strings and classic, there is some of the harshness of the instrument that seems to be less proncouned then with the Ansuz A2. I think this makes the sound more “correct” with the Sigma. You could also view this as “glossing over”. Not entirely sure yet.
Definitely it is a much more relaxed listening experience. It is like driving a Rolls Royce now while I had a Jeep before
Regarding jaw dropping to the floor: almost
But certainly more impact than i expected. I want to let it burn in some more but I enjoy the listening so much now.
Actually, with more listening my jaw is getting closer to the floor. Quite amazing. Everything is more balanced with a terrific sense of space and detail.
I found mine took at least a couple of weeks before it settled properly. And just be aware that it’s very sensitive to being moved. No idea why but if it is moved it takes a day or so to come back on song.
I totally agree with your findings. I think the Sigma v2 is the most beautifully neutral and natural ethernet cable I’ve heard. When I substitute it for something else the sound just becomes muddy, two dimensional and completely looses its sense of realism.
I’m glad you are enjoying it. Welcome to the fan club!
Great I joined @Geko curious how the Sigma will develop over the next couple weeks. Already terrific. Did not expect so much impact from an ethernet cable. All my previous changes of ethernet cables had subtle effects compared to Sigma V2 and also the Alpha V2 did not convince me.
Amazing how Shunyata managed this and even more curious now what is in these little black boxes.
Has anyone compared the Sigma V2 w Sigma-X? I have Omega but never had the chance to compare it with Sigma V2. I would love to compare but V2 isn’t available only Sigma-X.
That’s a great description. Pretty much exactly sums up my thoughts when I installed mine. I’ve got a deliberately simple network setup with catsnake into EE8 and sigma into ND555. With the current firmware voices are astonishing.
