Monster Ultra 1000 review

The Monster Ultra 1000 is fair value if you need a generous length. Tested at £1000.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Usefully open sound, but not the focus or clout of the best

Pros

  • +

    Airy open sound

  • +

    energetic presentation

Cons

  • -

    Uncomfortable with big dynamic shifts

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

You're familiar with the digital argument? The one that goes ‘it's all ones and zeros so all optical cables will sound the same'?

In May 2009 we rounded up eight cables and they all gave a distinctly different sound. Here's one that missed out.

Providing the link between a CD transport and DAC, the Monster Ultra 1000 cable initially impresses with the airy openness of its soundstage and the energy of its presentation.

Listen a little longer, though, and a slightly vague focus and discomfort with big dynamic shifts becomes the overriding signature.

Fair value if you need the generous length.

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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