QED Signature Audio S review

QED's new flagship interconnect offers great dynamics and punch Tested at £190.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

As a flagship interconnect, this QED doesn't let the side down

Pros

  • +

    Great dynamics and punch

  • +

    detailing is excellent

  • +

    wide sound

  • +

    lots of verve

Cons

  • -

    Won't be suitable for those with bright kits

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It's mildly concerning to think of a cable design team being 'let off the leash', but if you believe QED's blurb for its new interconnect, that's exactly what's happened, causing visions of white-coated, bespectacled boffins running amok in a laboratory somewhere.

But if the Signature Audio S is the product of this, then we say let them have free rein, because interconnects sounding this good are few and far between.

This is a stylish silver-plated brute too, although we're not keen on the red writing/silver cable combo, which is hard to see.

Sonically, the Audio S gives you an open, expansive sound, coupled with a wide soundstage. Fans of detailing will be sated here, with production values and nuances held brutally to the light during John Mayall's Hideaway, as are Beverley Knight's luscious vocals in Come As You Are.

Almost the full package
Dynamically too, this cable packs a punch and there's real poise there as well to round things off nicely. But while you get a smooth midrange and springy, propulsive bass, the treble is brilliantly lit and those with a set-up that's already bass-light will find this isn't for them.

Nevertheless, with its new flagship interconnect, QED has produced a fine accessory for most systems. Free-range boffins, eh – who'd have thought it?

What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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