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I still feel the same way Lee and just to make sure I go back to the Kimber every now and again only to find the veiling return along with the harshness at really high volumes that has always crippled my computer audio system. The Axis was a pure revelation for my system and I can't understate that enough. This was with the Trends UD-10.1 USB transport and a Sunfire processor so with higher grade gear like that of Empirical Audio, maybe the Axis would be too much of a good thing and the Polestar would be a better choice. Not for me tho and I don't need to try the Polestar to know that I couldn't take a step back from what I now have. Considering what I'm able to do now, that being very high volume listening w/o any listeners fatigue, I rate the Axis as my #1 system purchase for me and in my system. YMMV! For another perspective on these 2 USB cables (so Lee won't have to toot his own horn ), check out a review in the current issue of Positive Feedback. http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue40/usb.htm Fortunately this article was written after I had formulated my own conclusions on the Axis so I found it very satisfying that this article mirrored my own opinions overall. aaCheers,Robin
Lee,Congrats on the nice review. Looks like that from JD's comments that I picked the right cable for my tastes -- even if the budget was the deciding factor . I shuld know soon enough.-- Jim
Wanted to wait a bit before posting my initial impressions but now having just about 200 hours on the Axis USB cable and probably 100 on the Polestar . I was just using some cheap USB cable at the time when I read Satfrat(Robin's)initial impressions about how the Axis cable transformed his computer based audio system. So I figured why not give this a try as there is always room for improvement. Well, I can honestly say without reservation that the Axis is staying in the system and never leaving. If your into the digital computer music age and you think that it's just 1's & 0's being transferred to your audio system and how in the world can a cable make a difference,it's just a cable for Pete's sake, you are in for an ear opening experience.The information that is hidden inside those 1's & 0's is brought to light using the Axis. Separation of notes is remarkable and even upon first listen will tell you something very special is happening here. The authority in which the bottom end and the deepness being separated by notes that otherwise were garbled together now have delineation that just puts the bass runs into a entity of itself while still being part of the whole score. Vocals each have their space and presence of performer,taking breath's and clear pronunciation of the written words in which they sing. It's just wonderful hearing the music portrayed in this manner. The high frequency was a little unnerving during the first 100 hours of burn in as I believe digital lacks what analog does best in this regard but after 100 hours things really settled down and the decay of a shimmering cymbal or a high-hat being depressed with authority was clearly distinguisable. As you can tell, I really love what this Axis cable did for my system. I don't consider myself a cable kind of guy but over the years I've probably tried more then others less then some but the Axis USB has just made the experience of listening more pleasurable in every way. If you want to unlock your computer's potential by all means pick up this cable! In comparison to the Polestar my initial thoughts are that the Axis has more energy while being just a smidgeon more forward,while the Polestar has a set back a little further soundstage.For my system and my taste the Axis is the one but either would be a wise choice.If your just using some $10 USB cable then you really owe it to yourself to audition and pick up a Locus Design Polestar or Axis. Your ears will thank you. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to All, Bill
