Clearer Audio Silver-Line review

Clearer Audio has a strong pedigree, but this HDMI cable doesn't do quite enough to wow us Tested at £100.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

A thoroughly average cable: there’s much better for this sort of money

Pros

  • +

    Good colour palette

  • +

    clear edge definition

  • +

    low noise levels

Cons

  • -

    Lacks dynamics and detailing

  • -

    weak bottom end

  • -

    motion needs more stability

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You'll probably recognise the name Clearer Audio: over the years the company's Copper-line and Silver-line cable ranges have earned a series of great reviews in these pages.

However, the new Silver-line HDMI breaks with that tradition. Tested with the fast-paced Blu-ray of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, images from the Silver-line HDMI have good, clear edge-definition, and possess a natural colour palette. Noise levels are acceptable, too. But look a bit closer at this cable's performance and it's easy to pick holes.

Lacks punch and power
The effect on motion isn't the most stable we've seen at this money, with the university car chase lacking definition and dynamics. Detailing is capable, but we'd like our images crisper.

Those seeking sonic thrills will be disappointed by this cable's impact on low frequencies, too. This tends to throw the focus on the higher frequencies, meaning the Silver-line lacks punch and power when required.

Pit this against the class leaders and it's clear the Silver-line is an average performer. It's perfectly adequate, but at this kind of price we expect more bang for our buck. Chord's Active is a better buy.

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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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