This is the first time in five years that we’ve decided to give Awards both to optical and coaxial digital leads. And, as in 2007, it’s QED that provides a winner in the shape of its excellent Performance cable.
With a purple trunk, dark-chrome plugs and gold-plated connectors, it looks flamboyant – and that panache extends to its performance.
It’s assertive, but good at conveying subtleties. The sound is clean and vibrant. There’s a good sense of energy too, with plenty of attack.
This is an excellent all-rounder and a better performer than many pricier alternatives. You’d have to spend significantly more to get a noticeable improvement, and even then you’d struggle to find better value for money.
