Quick answer
The Time Stream Ultra uses a hybrid conductor design for a balanced, high-resolution sound, while the Time Stream Metal Series offers silver-plated copper performance with durable metal termination accents at a lower price point.
Conductor design and sonic signature
The core difference between these two cables lies in their conductor makeup. The Time Stream Ultra combines silver-plated copper (SPC) and pure copper conductors in eight 24 AWG strands, creating a balanced sonic signature that aims to enhance both clarity and warmth. In contrast, the Time Stream Metal Series uses enameled silver-plated copper conductors, which tend to emphasize treble extension and detail retrieval.
If you prefer a more neutral or slightly warm presentation with added body, the Ultra's hybrid design may suit you better. If you value crisp highs and airy treble without sacrificing too much midrange presence, the Metal Series delivers that classic SPC character.
Build quality and aesthetics
Both cables share Campfire Audio's non-migratory PVC jacket for flexibility and durability, but the Metal Series adds elegant metal termination accents for a premium look. The Ultra focuses on performance with its large gauge conductors and high-definition design, while the Metal Series balances style and sonic excellence at a more accessible price.
The Metal Series also features custom-made MMCX connectors made of copper and beryllium, which are known for their robust fit and reliable signal transfer. The Ultra's connectors are not specified in the catalog, so if connector material is a deciding factor, the Metal Series offers that detail upfront.
Time Stream Ultra vs Metal Series: Trade-offs
- Sonic character: Ultra: balanced, resolving, slightly warm. Metal Series: bright, detailed, airy.
- Conductor type: Ultra: hybrid SPC + pure copper (eight 24 AWG conductors). Metal Series: enameled silver-plated copper.
- Build and aesthetics: Ultra: large gauge for performance, no metal accents specified. Metal Series: metal termination accents, copper/beryllium MMCX connectors.
- Price: Ultra: USD 241.18 (compare at USD 389.00). Metal Series: USD 73.26 (compare at USD 99.00). The Metal Series offers a significant cost saving while still delivering SPC performance.
Product facts at a glance
-
Time Stream Cable - Metal Series: Crafted with enameled silver-plated copper conductors and encased in a non-migratory PVC jacket, with custom-made MMCX connectors of copper and beryllium. This combination delivers a bright, detailed sound with robust connector durability, ideal for listeners who prioritize treble clarity and long-term reliability.
Time Stream Cable - Metal Series
-
Time Stream: Ultra: Blends SPC and pure copper conductors to create a balanced sonic signature, with a large gauge for increased speed and resolution. The hybrid conductor design and larger gauge provide a more balanced, resolving sound that adds body and warmth while maintaining detail, suiting those who want a versatile upgrade.
Time Stream: Ultra
Which cable should you choose?
Best for
- Listeners who want a balanced, high-resolution sound with added warmth and body – choose the Time Stream Ultra.
- Budget-conscious audiophiles who still want a detailed, airy SPC sound with premium build accents – choose the Time Stream Metal Series.
Not ideal for
- Those seeking a pure copper or pure silver cable – both are hybrid or SPC-only designs.
- Users who need a cable with specified connector materials beyond MMCX – the Ultra does not list connector specs.