The series charge cable as pictured is correctly wired and yes I use it.
The balance series adapter was purchased as seen and is correctly wired, no need to cut any wires. If you look closely, inner red and black are wired together (yes you can cut one of them but there is no need, they are also wired together via the power cable).
But if you pair wrong the power and balance connectors, you get yourself a short. Watch the outer red and black of the balance cable in relation to red and black of the power cable.
Once correctly assembled (that's what the zip ties are for, to make sure I can't do mistakes), I can charge 2x2S even if not equally discharged.
A dual charger still remains the safest bet, especially if you are not familiar with how lipos are wired. Only use series charging if you understand all the wiring.