The new HDMI: AudioQuest's Indulgence
There should be nothing routine about your home theater experience. Every time you sit down to watch an HD movie with multi-channel surround sound or chill out with your favorite album, you should be enthralled, astonished, impressed, mystified, transported . . . and above all else, indulged. The folks at AudioQuest work to ensure that your home theater experience is unparalleled, and a crucial component of true high-fidelity audio and video is secure, stable, clear data transmission. In other words, killer cables. Redefining HDMI, AudioQuest presents the Indulgence series. These cables excel where other cables dare not tread — exceptional video transfer, unprecedented audio-signal transmission, ethernet communication, and audio return capability . . . And all this is thanks to the innovation and sophistication of AudioQuest engineering. As your introduction to the Indulgence series, the 1M Pearl cable offers solid long-grain copper conductors and solid polyethylene dielectric for high-speed, high-fidelity audio and video signal transmission. All from a single cable.
A change in focus: Speed to sound
The High Definition Multimedia Interface (a.k.a HDMI) emerged in 2004 as the only cable capable of transmitting both Full HD 1080p video and 7.1-channel lossless audio along a single cable. Instantly, it revolutionized home theater, allowing simple, yet advanced, system connectivity even for the most complex HD systems. Since HDMI's inception, the focus of HDMI cable quality has always been on speed. In other words, on the signal-transmission rate (Gigabytes-per-second) of which a cable is capable. Unfortunately, this focus is misleading. Very misleading. Historically, it has been assumed that higher speeds meant better cable performance. History, however, has been wrong. Because HDMI licensing ( and physics) mandates a maximum output rate of 10.2 Gbps, no device can output data at any higher rates. Accordingly, claims that HDMI cables rated as high as 29 Gbps are superior are irrelevant, especially since most media output data at less than 10.2 Gbps. For this reason, with the Indulgence series, AudioQuest redirects the focus . . . to fidelity and sound. Video signals can be fairly easily corrected by A/V components, so that signal fidelity is only of moderate concern. Audio signals, however, cannot be easily or accurately corrected once the signal has degraded due to poor transmission, so the Indulgence series dedicates itself to exceptional and unprecedented audio-signal transmission. From conductor materials and geometry to dielectric insulation and precision of manufacture, Indulgence series HDMI cables deliver industry-leading audio-signal transmission ideal for high definition, multi-channel home theater applications. The key to their success, however, is conductor material. Beginning with high-fidelity solid long-grain copper and adding progressively more silver plating, the Indulgence sub-series cables achieve increasingly higher-integrity signal transmission.
No back seat for video
True, with the Indulgence series of HDMI cables from AudioQuest, the shift in focus has been to audio performance . . . and the results are staggering. However, AudioQuest shares the spotlight with video, too. The same attention to material-quality and construction that was given to the Indulgence Series' audio performance applies equally to video-signal transmission. Accordingly, the 1M Pearl cable is able to deliver 100% of the data required for Full HD 1080p video displays, including 120Hz, 240Hz, 600Hz, and even 3D content.
Beyond HDMI
Even when only considering audio- and video-signal transmission capabilities, Indulgence Series HDMI cables are impressive enough. If only they limited themselves to traditional audio and video transmission. But, they don't. Creating a cable equipped for both the present and future of HD home theater, AudioQuest has engineered the 1M Pearl — and all other Indulgence cables — to meet the HDMI v1.4 standard. The result is a versatile expansion of the cable's functionality. First, bi-directional ethernet communication allows for a 100Mbps ethernet connection between two HDMI connected devices, expanding single-cable connectivity. Second, an integrated audio return channel allows for audio&ensp— such as microphone audio used in online gaming — to also be transmitted along the 1M Pearl cable. Third, the HDMI v1.4 protocol supports the 4k x 2k resolution (4096 x 2160p @ 24Hz), the same resolution used in HD theaters. Finally, the HDMI v1.4 Pearl cable is 3D capable, ensuring compatibility with 3D-enabled HDTVs and Blu-ray Disc players.
Another word on speed
Earlier, we discussed the exaggerated importance ascribed to signal-transmission speed (Gbps) in recent HDMI history. You might find it odd to learn, then, that HDMI cables complying with the latest standards are grouped into two classifications: High Speed and Standard Speed. As we've already noted that current HDMI protocols (and practical physics) limit data output speeds to 10.2 Gbps, these two classifications can be thought in terms of potential, rather than application — the limit applies to the output of HDMI-enable devices, not the capacity of HDMI cables. While High Speed HDMI cables must be capable of transmitting 10.2 Gbps (Standard Speed cables transfer at any lower rate), they may also accommodate higher speeds. In fact, all AudioQuest Indulgence HDMI cables exceed 10.2 Gbps at cable lengths under 8m, and 12m cables only narrowly miss the mark. The original emphasis on data speed was based on the notion that upcoming audio and video technologies would require higher and higher transfer rates for full performance. However, this is extremely unlikely because of serious physical and technological obstacles and the high capacity of 10.2 Gbps-rated devices. Nevertheless, thanks to its High Speed rating, even in a hypothetical future with extremely high data-transfer needs, the 1M Pearl cable would still be the last component you would need to replace in your home theater.
audioquest 1 meter pearl (January 02, 2012)
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Reviewed By: Scott B. - Powhatan, VA
Wow! the pearl is all that and a bag of chips. The sound and vidieo are astounding. Very vivid picture and crisp clean sound.Thepearl handles all of your video and audio as well as gaming needs .I am currently saving for another pearl as well as power conditioner..Both Ryan and Josh were down to earth and easy to talk to. Not to mention knowledgeable as can be .These guys really knew the business,you could clearly tell this was not just a job this was more than a hobbie for them this was a passion. I Scott Boone appreciate them and their time I will be back.
AudioQuest Cables 1M HDMI Pearl (October 04, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Chris S. - Sultan, WA
Good quality cable for my mid-level applications.
AudioQuest HDMI Cable (July 15, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Martin C. - Naperville, IL
Works as advertised. 10 over 10.
Audio Quest HDMI Audio Cable Pearl (July 06, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Scott P. - Santa Rosa, CA
Great Audio Performance however, I ordered the wrong cable. I needed a 3 m cable, not a 1 m cable. It was my error.
Nice Quality Cable (June 30, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Terrance M. - Eau Claire, WI
Ordered this cable with the LG ST600 SmartTV Upgrader, as was one HDMI cable shy, Quite pleased, excellent quality and data transmission.
AudioQuest Cables 1M HDMI Pearl (June 23, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Ardath C. - Sequim, WA
Our son, who knows about electronics and installation, gave this cable a thumbs up! and so do I.
Uh... what did you say? (April 14, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Daniel J Philbin - Cathedral City, CA
I have no idea what to do with this item, but a Vanns customer service person, who was very cool about explaining things technology, said it would come in handy as I build my entertainmentstereo stuff. This was not my first purchase from Vanns. Hopefully, this indicates a degree of customer satisfaction. I will be back to shop with Vanns again and again.
Quality HDMI cable (March 21, 2011)
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Reviewed By: Eugene C. - Fayetteville, United States
I already posted my review of the 2m version but felt it necessary to have my thoughts here as well. In addition to the packaging, I thought the build quality on this cable was excellent. I actually wasnt aware that they have different versions of this Pearl, Chocolate?, etc. and this was the cheaper model they produce. Even though it is the most basic, I was amazed at how perfect the plastic like grips were cut away by the near perfect rectangular connector. I havent seen that quality of craftsmanship, for quite a long time. Then again, this is probably my first premiumpricier HDMI cable. It worked out great for my needs and I feel anyone would be happy with this product, especially their basic Pear model.
Works well (December 31, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Ray S. - Alexandria, VA
The connectors are good quality. The cable itself is sturdy, but perhaps a bit stiff, which makes it a little tougher to work into cable management systems. It is a good quality cable at a reasonable price. I have bought cheaper cables before, but I have had problems with the connectors on those cables. For digital, I am of the opinion that a solid quality cable is all that you need. We would buy this one again.
HDMI cable (December 28, 2010)
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Reviewed By: John H. - Chisago City, MN
Have not had any problems and HDTV picture is great. Great buy for the price.
AudioQuest Cable 1M HDMI Pearl (December 27, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Richard K. - Fort Collins, CO
This cable is as good as any that I have purchased and used. It works flawlessly, and the build quality appears to be first rate. The price sweetened the purchase of a Blu-Ray DVD Player as it was included in a package at no cost.
Very Pleased (December 21, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Norman M. - Sanford, MI
Vanns provided a convenient option for getting this item. Very Satisfied.
Best HDMI Cables (December 13, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Anthony H Scott - Bronx, NY
Recently purchased both the 1M & 2M AudioQuest Pearl series cables & am very satisfied. Hugh difference in performance over standard OEM. Would recommend to anyone looking to upgrade. Will soon order another 1M for an additional component Ive recently purchased. Thanx VANNs, TONY
AudioQuest HDMI Pearl (December 01, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Heath M. - Spanish Fork, UT
Great HDMI cable for the price! Cant beat it! Thanks Vanns.
AudioQuest Cables 1M HDMI Pearl (November 29, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Don G. - Bensenville, IL
Used this cable with my new Pioneer Blueray player. Exceptional sound and video quality. The cables fit tight when plugged in. All round great quality in manufacturing of cables. Highly recommend these cables for use with your MultiMedia Equipment.
Great Product (November 08, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Tom R. - Louisville, KY
I purchased the Audio Quest HDMI cable to use with my bluray player. It works great passing through a clean crisp picture and excellent sound. I would recommend this cable, it represents a great value for the price. The design of ths cable allows it to flex making it easy to hide behind the AV stand. It comes in a simple box with no frills packaging, but the cable is what I purchased so the packaging was just trash anyway.
Quality flexible directional short cable (October 11, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Frank C. - Cheyenne, WY
The 1 meter cable supposedly is 1 meter in length. I did not actually measure it but to me it looked shorter than 1 meter. If it were to be measured it might be either exactly 1 meter long tip to tip or just short of it.
The packaging is all cardboard with the exception of the wire ties securing the cable to the inner cardboard insert. The cable itself is not wrapped in plastic, but the connector ends have plastic caps on them. The full color outer box has a description of the product and brief usage instructions.
Despite being shorter than expected, the cable is a high quality clearly labeled directional cable with adequate shielding and flexibility. I see no need to pay more for an HDMI cable when AudioQuests low end cable is better than other manufacturers high-end cables that sell for more. With the simple packaging in which the cable comes you know youre paying for a quality cable and not just flashy packaging.
Great Value! (October 05, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Bryan K. - Hixson, TN
Excellent product for the price... Seems to be flawless!
Great Product (August 16, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Shelly D. - Otsego, MN
Bought this HDMI cable primarily because of the 3D capability. It is well made and delivers excellent picture quality as far as I can tell. Recommended.
THESE WIRES 'DO WORK' VERY NICE...LOVE UM (August 11, 2010)
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Reviewed By: JAKE P. - ST.GEORGE, UT
JUST BOUGHT TWO OF THESE AUDIOQUEST PEARL HDMI WIRES TO GO TO MY 1080P SAMSUNG FROM MY ONKYO 7.2 THX RECEIVER I ALSO JUST BOUGHT FROM VANNS AND GOT THEM TOGETHER WITH A PACKAGE DEAL I COULD NOT REFUSE. THE OTHER HDMI GOES TO MY PS3 TO THE RECEIVER. THEY COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER NICELY...FINALLY THIS IS WHAT REAL HD IS LIKE...WOW...THE COMPLETE PACKAGE. VERY HAPPY!!! BUY UM.
AudioQuest Cables 1M HDMI Pearl (June 09, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Eric S. - FINKSBURG, MD
Exactly what I need to get the best quality picture from my new blu-ray player. Thanks Vanns!
Comparison Specifications
- Metal: Solid long-grain copper (LGC) conductors
- Dielectric: Solid polyethylene insulation
- Termination: HDMI A connector
- Speed rating: High Speed HDMI cable / 1080p, 4K, and 3D capable / 120Hz, 240Hz, and 600Hz capable
- Ethernet: Bi-directional ethernet communication
- Audio: Audio return channel enabled
- Jacket: Dark PVC with pearl stripes
Additional Specifications
- Critical Stable geometry
- Low-jitter, low-distortion audio
- Signal conductors controlled for digital audio direction
Dimensional Specifications
- Cable length: 3' 4" (1m)
AudioQuest 1M HDMI Pearl Warranty Details
5-year limited warranty
