{"id":42164,"date":"2025-12-09T17:51:16","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:51:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/?p=42164"},"modified":"2026-04-29T11:53:30","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T09:53:30","slug":"ansuz-a3-and-x3-usb-cables","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/review\/cables-reviews\/reviews-digital-cable\/ansuz-a3-and-x3-usb-cables\/","title":{"rendered":"Ansuz A3 and X3 USB Cables"},"content":{"rendered":"

Review samples supplied by Ohm Audio<\/a>
\nRetail prices in the Netherlands, including 21% VAT:
\nX3 USB 2,0m: 480 Euro
\nA3 USB 2,0m: 800 Euro<\/h4>\n

Foreword<\/h3>\n

In the Ansuz lineup, the X represents Ansuz’s entry-level product line. Counterintuitively, the A corresponds to the next level up. So, A is more premium than X.<\/p>\n

Before looking this up and understanding the cables’ respective tiers and price points, I assumed that X was positioned above A, and I went into my initial listening comparison with that in mind. After hearing the A3, I was pleasantly surprised by its crisp and lively sound. But after hearing the X3 next, I was puzzled and wondered how this cable could be higher up on the hierarchy, as it performed on a lower level than the A3. Of course, I had it totally backwards. And as soon as I realized that, the puzzle pieces fell right into place.<\/p>\n

I’m mentioning this mishap because it inadvertently served as a one-man blind test. As reassuring as it is to know I can rely on my ears, this also allowed me to assess the differences between the two models entirely objectively.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

X3 and A3<\/h3>\n

The X3 and A3 cables share multiple identical properties. For instance, both have silver-plated copper conductors, and both are terminated with gold-plated connectors. Both cables contain a range of special proprietary Ansuz techniques.<\/p>\n

A special technique used for both cables is ‘Passive End Coil Technology’. At one end of the cable, a passive Tesla Coil is wound around the conductors to prevent noise from reaching the audio components. The passive Tesla Coil is mounted just in front of the connector, and when it encounters a noise spike, a counter spike is generated and added to the signal to cancel the noise. This process is conceptually similar to how noise-canceling headphones work. The result is a lower noise floor and a cleaner signal.<\/p>\n

The difference between the X3 and A3 lies in the types and numbers of techniques used. In short, A3 has twice the number of Passive End Coils and Passive Cable Tesla Coils as the X3, and an additional Passive Tesla Coil.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

X3<\/h3>\n

The X3 is Ansuz’s entry-level USB cable. At 480 Euros, the X3 can be considered very affordable, especially in the Ansuz catalog. The Ansuz Digitalz X3 USB has silver-plated copper conductors and is terminated with gold-plated connectors. This cable is extremely supple, just as bendy as a standard USB cable, but sonically it is very different.<\/p>\n

Ansuz Passive End Coils: 1 x 70.4 cm
\nAnsuz Passive Cable Tesla Coils: 1 x 48.8 cm
\nAnsuz Active Cable Tesla Coils: 0
\nAnsuz Passive Tesla Coils: 0
\nAnsuz Powerbox Connection: N\/A
\nShielding: 4 x Tin Foil tinned Copper Mesh
\nConductors: 4 x 0.3 mm2 Shielded Silver plated Copper
\nInsulation: HDPE<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

A3<\/h3>\n

The A3 is positioned one tier above the X3. At 800 Euros, the A3 is considerably more expensive, but honestly, in a world where USB cables often start at much higher prices, I still consider it reasonably priced.<\/p>\n

The A3 USB cable has dual Passive End Coils and Passive Cable Tesla Coils, whereas the X3 USB cable has one of each. Additionally, the A3 USB cable has a 148cm-long, wound Tesla Coil built into it. The A3 is a little stiffer than the extremely supple X3, but in absolute terms and compared to the average USB cable, it’s still very pliable.<\/p>\n

Ansuz Passive End Coils: 2 x 70.4 cm
\nAnsuz Passive Cable Tesla Coils: 2 x 48.8 cm
\nAnsuz Active Cable Tesla Coils: 0
\nAnsuz Passive Tesla Coils: 1 x 148 cm
\nAnsuz Powerbox Connection: N\/A
\nShielding: 4 x Tin Foil tinned Copper Mesh
\nConductors: 4 x 0.3 mm2 Shielded Silver plated Copper
\nInsulation: HDPE<\/p>\n

Review Context<\/h3>\n

The X3 and A3 USB cables were listened to in the <\/span>main system<\/a>, <\/span>which consists of the CH Precision C1.2<\/a> DAC, CH Precision L1<\/a> preamplifier, and CH Precision A1.5<\/a> power amp,\u00a0using <\/span>the Antipodes Oladra<\/a> Music Server. <\/span>All interlinks are Driade Flow Link Reference 808<\/a>, and the speaker cables are Driade Flow Reference 808<\/a>. All components are powered by the PS Audio P20<\/a> PowerPlant. Speakers used are the Apogee Duetta Signature (recently refurbished with the latest Graz foils).<\/span><\/p>\n

Foreword<\/h3>\n

As regular readers will know, I have often noted profound differences between USB and other digital connections. Typically, direct USB-to-USB connections have a precise, controlled, and somewhat mechanical nature. This has led to a personal preference for AES\/EBU cables. Interestingly, in most cases when a server has outputs such as AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF, these are derived from an internal USB port. So, why do there still seem to be structural differences?<\/p>\n

Antipodes has found a way to mitigate the differences by fitting their servers’ USB ports with the same Reclocker circuit as used for the digital output section. As part of the G4 incarnation, the Oladra server has been updated, and I confirmed that USB now sounds much closer to the server’s AES\/EBU or other Digital Outputs. This kind of uniformity is a blessing for a reviewer assessing cables, but it reignites the question of which cable is ideal: USB or traditional digital.<\/p>\n

All I can say is that this remains a relative matter. The quality of a USB connection depends not only on the transmitting side but also on the USB receiver in the DAC, the synergy with the rest of the system, and personal preferences.<\/p>\n

In any case, even with a reclocked USB output, I find that the USB cable still matters, and there are still significant differences from cable to cable, which brings us to the Ansuz A3 and X3 USB cables.<\/p>\n

Next: Listening and Conclusion<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Listening – A3 USB<\/h3>\n

Starting with the Ansuz A3 USB cable, fresh out of the box, I was pleasantly surprised by its crisp, pure, well-focused, and lively sound. Not all digital cables change much over time, but some do. So, just in case, I left the cable playing music continuously for 5 days while leaving the X3 cable untouched. If the A3 changed over time, I would easily hear the difference compared to the other cable. Sure enough, when I listened to the two cables again after a week, the A3 had become slightly smoother and a little more liquid, while retaining all the qualities I liked.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

After playing music continuously for 5 days, I was still impressed by the nimble, articulate, upbeat, open, and expressive sound the Oladra produced with this cable. The A3 USB offers fast, tight, and articulate bass, a detailed, open, and communicative midrange with superb focus, and accurate yet delicate, open, and airy treble. The sound is entirely devoid of excess fat, yet it doesn’t sound lean. The bass is all there, convincingly and realistically, just the way it should be, but never bloated or exaggerated. Collectively, we respond well to a fuller sound, and we usually find it pleasant. But if there’s one thing I learned over the years, it’s that nothing beats neutrality! Nevertheless, as clean and neutral as the A3 sounds, it also provides an organic meatiness to the midrange that, in other cables, is usually only achieved by fattening the bass.<\/p>\n

No matter what I play using the A3 cable, the rendition feels lively, realistic, and highly resolving, which is just the way I like it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

From left to right: standard “freebie” USB cable, Vermouth Reference, Ansuz X3, Ansuz A3, and Mad Scientist Prime.<\/em><\/p>\n

When using a standard “freebie” USB cable after the Ansuz A3, the server maintains a nimble, upbeat rendition. However, the sound now becomes comparatively lean and barebones, less expressive and powerful, tonally desaturated, and less engaging than with the Ansuz A3 USB cable.<\/p>\n

The Vermouth Reference<\/a> USB cable, on the other hand, has a very charming sound that is easy to relax into. This cable is considerably smoother and has a liquidity that makes it emotionally pleasing. However, it is also significantly<\/em> less crisp, incisive, open, and propulsive than the Ansuz A3, and quite laidback. As pleasant as it sounds, I find it less exciting and less realistic.<\/p>\n

The Mad Scientist Prime<\/a> is a standout USB cable: it sounds like no other USB cable. The Prime has a rock-solid foundation and is tonally full-bodied, powerful, and impactful. One could say it has a similarly planted and tonally full quality to the classic Wadia CD players, if that reference still holds up after all these years. The Ansuz A3 is comparatively leaner but closer to what I regard as strictly neutral, while offering a more open upper midrange and more extended, airier treble.<\/p>\n

Compared to a Mogami 3080 AES\/EBU cable, the Ansuz A3 USB sounds tonally richer yet also more incisive, upbeat, and communicative. Stepping up to the Network Acoustics muon 2 Balanced<\/a> AES\/EBU cable, the overall sound signature comes close to the Ansuz A3 USB cable in terms of fluidity, flow, richness, and finesse, but the USB cable retains its lead in tightness, articulation, and expression.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Listening – X3 USB<\/h3>\n

Before continuing my assessments with the X3 USB cable, I let it play music for 5 days to ensure it had the same runtime as the A3 cable.<\/p>\n

Starting with the A3 and swapping to the X3, the differences were significant. I’ve heard many USB cables, but when comparing two cables from the same manufacturer, and especially when they are only one tier apart, one does not expect such a massive difference.<\/p>\n

If ever there was an incentive to believe marketing claims using unconventional methods, such as Ansuz’s Tesla Coil techniques, this is it. After all, these two cables use the same conductors, materials, and construction, and the only differences are in the Tesla techniques. Also, this observation lends further weight to a claim I made earlier in another Ansuz review. Although Anzus products become increasingly and significantly more costly as you move from tier to tier, the sound quality most assuredly also takes a massive leap each time.<\/p>\n

In stark contrast with the A3’s tight, crisp, and well-focused delivery, the X3’s sound is smooth, full-blooded, free-flowing, and relaxed. Whereas the A3 is very energetic and exciting, the X3 is calmer and more laid-back, offering a comforting, spacious sound with a warm feel.<\/p>\n

The X3 has a pleasant rendition, for sure, but you can clearly hear that the focus and precision are reduced compared to the A3 cable. Amazingly, these differences are attributed solely to Ansuz’s Coil Techniques.<\/p>\n

Although it is probably clear that I am more impressed with the A3, the X3 is still worth considering, especially when looking for a cable in its price range and when paired with more affordable, less audiophile audio components. These often sound a little lean and tonally pale, or can lack a seductive, “analog”, or liquid quality. Compared to using a standard freebie USB cable, the X3 provides a more upscale, lush, involving, and refined performance. As such, it is one of the most sensible first steps when upgrading an audio system.<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n

Ansuz is known for high-quality products that can be expensive, but the X3 USB and A3 USB models offer excellent value at more than reasonable prices.<\/p>\n

With its crisp, propulsive, focused, open, and expressive yet fluid and airy rendition, the A3 has immediately won me over. This cable ticks all the audiophile boxes, steers clear of all the no-no boxes, and is so neutral and natural that you forget listening to a USB cable. Highly recommended without ifs or buts.<\/p>\n

The even more affordable X3 may not offer quite the same performance as the A3, but it is still a great cable that provides a smooth, lush, spacious, involving, and hugely refined performance. It is still miles better than a standard USB cable, and especially worth considering as the next upgrade for systems that sound a little lean and could do with a touch of seductive smoothness. At its attractive price point, I consider the A3 one of the best options available.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"
\nA3 USB Cable<\/p>\n

\"\"
\nX3 USB Cable<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

External Links<\/h3>\n

Distributor for the Netherlands: Ohm Audio<\/a>
\nManufacturer: Ansuz<\/a><\/p>\n

Team Ohm-Audio bv:<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Derk Broos<\/div>\n
Luuk Broos<\/div>\n
Gerbren Noordhuis<\/div>\n

Ohm Audio<\/a><\/h4>\n

Open by appointment
\nTuesday to Saturday 10:00 – 18:00<\/h4>\n

Zernikepark 21
\n9747 AP Groningen<\/h4>\n

Phone line 1 : +31 (0)6-38027736
\nPhone line 2 : +31 (0)6-38027745
\nEmail : i n f o @ o h m – a u d i o . n l<\/h4>\n
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