Chord ClearwayX ARAY XLR Interconnect Pair
A balanced analogue interconnect for systems where longer runs, lower noise, and cleaner component matching matter.
When Balanced Connections Make Sense
XLR is not automatically better in every system, but it can be the right answer when the source and amplifier are designed to use a balanced connection properly. The goal is not more cable for the sake of it. The goal is a quieter, more stable signal path between components.
ClearwayX ARAY XLR is built around that idea. Chord adapts the ClearwayX ARAY analogue design for a true balanced connection with identical conductors for the hot, cold, and earth paths.
Why We Chose It
We chose Chord ClearwayX ARAY XLR because it gives balanced systems a more serious cable option without jumping straight into the upper lines. It carries the ClearwayX ARAY design into an XLR format, where connection quality, conductor consistency, and noise rejection can be especially important.
In the right system, this is the cable we would consider when the components already have proper balanced outputs and inputs, and the system is capable enough to benefit from a cleaner link between them.
What the Specs Won't Tell You
Cleaner Signal Over the Run
A true balanced connection can help reject common noise between components. That matters when the cable path is longer, the rack is busy, or the system is revealing enough to expose small amounts of haze.
Better Continuity Through the Cable
Using identical conductors for the hot, cold, and earth paths helps the balanced signal stay consistent through the cable. The result can be a presentation that feels more stable and better organized.
A Stronger Match for Better Electronics
When a streamer, DAC, preamp, or integrated amplifier has proper balanced connections, using the right XLR cable helps the system stay closer to what the component was designed to do.
The Audio Two Verdict
ClearwayX ARAY XLR is the right Clearway choice when the system is already built around balanced connections. It is not about chasing a connector type. It is about using the connection method that best suits the equipment and preserving the quality of the signal between components.
For systems with proper XLR outputs and inputs, this is a clean, sensible step before moving into ShawlineX or Epic analogue cables.
Tech You Can Hear
| What You Hear | Why It Happens |
|---|---|
| Lower noise between compatible components | Balanced XLR connection helps reject common noise in the signal path |
| A more stable stereo image | Identical conductors for hot, cold, and earth support consistent balanced signal transfer |
| Cleaner long-run performance | XLR format is useful where equipment placement or rack layout requires more cable length |
| A more complete match for balanced electronics | ClearwayX ARAY analogue design is adapted for true balanced connection use |
Technical Highlights
- ClearwayX ARAY analogue XLR interconnect
- True balanced connection design
- Identical conductors for hot, cold, and earth paths
- Designed for compatible balanced source and amplifier connections
- Standard pair lengths from 0.5m to 5m
Why Choose Audio Two
Audio Two ships across Canada. If you don't have access to a proper high-end dealer in your city, this is your way in — real expertise from people who've heard the system, matched the electronics, and can guide you through a decision this size.