Vortex audio is one the more recent premium IEM cable that has been really well received around the globe and they are mainly known for their simple, 2 core coaxial cable with their fabric sleeve like the Alida, Eddie Squared and many more with their iconic Vortex emblem as their Y splitter. Recently, they have decided to release a 4 core classic braided cable in their Zenith series that kept their solid, premium build and of course the amazing sound that they are known for.
Included in the package is a unique Vortex side bag that is a perfect companion to place your DAP, cables and IEM to go. A warranty card is also included but weirdly no cable tie of any sorts is available.
A heartfelt gratitude to the team of Starspicker especially Willy for providing a sample for us to enjoy and give honest feedback. Do head to their store to sample the full line up of Vortex Audio cables for demo and they are the official reseller for Vortex here in Malaysia.
Build
For the high price for just a cable, we would expect no exceptions in their quality and the Iris sure delivers in this region. They are braided to perfection and have a very soft PVC sleeve that is comfortable and pliable. They are slightly thicker than the usual coaxial cable but isn’t too thick for outdoor usage.
It is made from 4 core of 7N silver plated OCC, individually treated shield with Vortex special dialectic compound and a type 7 Litz build cable sourced from Taiwan. This design features a multicore, flat-braided construction that minimizes skin and proximity effects.
From left to right:
Vortex Iris, Yongse Violet, FiiO LC RD Pro, Sony Kimber Kable
Specifications
Vortex Zenith Series – Iris
• Structure: Litz Type 7 Helix
• Material: Silver-Plated 7N OCC Copper
• Origin: Taiwan
• Gauge: 25.1 AWG
The chin slider and the splitter is made from CNC aluminum and they are lightweight though a little sharp on the edges. The plugs are gold plated and available from various terminations but mainly 2pin 0.78mm and MMCX with 3.5mm and 4.4mm. Other terminations are available on a preorder basis instead. All plugs casing is made from aluminium as well and have their branding printed on the IEM side.
Sound (take it with a pinch of salt)
When tested on various IEMs in my collection, I do find that the Iris sound leaning towards the brighter tone but in a good way as they do not sound harsh nor too aggressive. There is a mild warmth mixed in but they are mainly a neutral bright sounding cable that is smooth and full sounding.
The high range here is slightly increased in amount but still able to sound smooth. It is recommended to match these cables with dark and warm IEMs. With bright IEMs I do find them to be a little too bright but in a small margin. The Iris also does increase the high range extension that gives more air.
Midrange here doesn’t really change much but the details and clarity has been increased with a better transparent sound while keeping the warmth intact. Resolution has a more vivid sound.
Bass is tighter with no addition in the amount. Bass is cleaner with a slightly deeper sub-bass reach. These cables match well with bassy IEM by making them more controlled.
Soundstage here doesn’t really have a big improvement but they do have an airer feel to them due to the extended highs and lows.
Conclusion
If you have the means for a high end cable with exceptional build quality and are looking for a bright sounding cable without the harshness and while avoiding a thin sound, the Iris might be the one for you. It has the traits of an ultra high end cable that has the lineage of a well established brand and a premium build quality. The side bag is certainly the cherry on top and it is actually a pretty nifty accessory for your portable audio setup.
