Vortex Seraphina - Turning a Skeptic Into a Believer
Specs -
- Structure: Shielded Twisted pair & S-Z Multi Strands with Shielded Twins Pair
- Material: (i)Shielding: Silver plated OFC Copper (ii)Core: Silver Plated 6N OCC Copper
- Gauge Size: 21.3 AWG
- Accessories: Standard ConX Basic 2.0 connectors & gold-plated copper connectors
Disclaimers & About Me -
I have been using the Vortex Seraphina for around 2 and a half weeks. Unfortunately I was not able to test the MMCX connection on the ConX, as my new set has yet to arrive and I have no other suitable test subjects, FYI!
This was cable was purchased through MusicTeck with a small discount for an impressions post. I liked the cable so much I decided to turn it into a full review.
I am a mid 30’s dad, and work full time in IT. Music has been important to me from a young age, consuming as many different types of albums and genres as I could. That is still true today, though my every day playlists lean most in pop, bass heavy electronic music, metal, and classic rock. I have a treble sensitivity due to years of negligent concert hearing protection (both on and off stage), so my preferred sound signature is warm and bassy. This is just a hobby for me, and I will always state how and where I got my gear.
Gear used for this review -
- RU7
- Szalayi / MP145 / Dark Phoenix
Aesthetics & Build Quality -
The Seraphina is a fabric cable, black with bright blue spot coloration. It's vibrant and eye-catching, especially when combined with the machine-etched connectors and Y-split. These parts feel especially high quality, giving the brand a unique identity to stand out in today's busy market. On an aesthetic level, this cable is directly in line with what I was looking for my upcoming 634Ears LOAK2-Ti. (hopefully it arrives soon!)
The y-split is a very clever piece of metal that uses a bolt to tighten the cable, there is not glue or adhesive used. It is a bit sharp, this doesn't bother me but it is worth noting. The cable itself could be a bit softer, but the sleeving feels very high quality. There has been no fraying or stray fibers.
Ergonomics & Use -
The Seraphina is a bit on the stiffer side, this is not really a cable to use with lighter IEMs or when in motion. Stiffness combined with the lack of a chin slider is an especially rough combo, I would like this option on future cable purchases in this price category. In my opinion, this is the largest issue with the Seraphina and one to consider before purchasing.
Vortex's inclusion of Effect Audio's ConX connection system was an amazing decision, and I would like more companies to utilize this feature rather than designing their own. Though the system is a little under engineered and could use some refinement, the ability to swap to MMCX and 2pin with the same cable is a game changer, and should be standard in this price category. Take notes, cable makers!
Packaging -
Vortex really went above and beyond on the packaging for their products. It includes the following:
- Seraphina cable
- Leather cable clip
- Basic Effect Audio ConX kit
- Carrying case, similar to this one from ddHiFi
- Warranty card
A very impressive package, and high quality be-fitting the price.
Sound -
Ah, the best (and most subjective) for last! How does the Seraphina perform on my chain? To answer that question, a bit of context is needed.
I have been skeptical about cable performance. In my eyes, spending more than $100 dollars for a cable was a big ask. I couldn't hear enough of a difference for the price to possibly seem worth it. The one time I did exceed that limit was a huge disappointment, and one of my biggest audio regrets (NiceHCK DragonScale). I decided to spend more money on a cable this time as a statement piece for my new custom 634Ears set. The money spent was decided on a cable that looked and felt high quality, a step above the budget products I was familiar with. Sound was not very much a consideration.
Imagine my surprise when there actually was a noticeable sound difference. To my ears, Seraphina brings an increase in quality and presence to the lower end of the frequency, specifically in the mids and sub bass. Using my Szalayi, a set I can typically wear all day without fatigue, the added sub bass is actually a bit overpowering on bass heavy songs. With the MP145, the added presence in the mids is palpable. I left Seraphina at home to burn in on the Dark Phoenix, and 2 days later I simply had to put it back on the MP145. The added "oomph" is addictive. On the Dark Phoenix, it unfortunately adds a bit too much mid bass bleed (an issue i think the Szalayi avoids with grace, by just.... being a bass monster instead). I did not notice any drop off in treble shine or extension with any IEM, nor changes in soundscape.
Conclusion -
The Seraphina is a carefully crafted piece of art, from the packaging to the sound profile. Everything about the Vortex Seraphina shouts "high quality product". I will be looking at Vortex cables for my future purchases, with the inclusion of chin sliders and a softer/more pliable fabric, they would be an absolute game changer. However, I cannot deny that I am now a more firm believer in what the cable can bring to a chain. Well done, Vortex.
4.5 stars
Vortex Seraphina can be purchased from MusicTeck for $439.00
