The Ultimate Guide To Audio Cables

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Audio Cables

It’s much simpler to choose when we only have one option. Unfortunately, in the case of audio cables, there is no one-size-fits-all. There are many audio cables out there, and it can be confusing. So we have put together a list of the different types of audio cables and what they’re used for.

In this guide, we will show you the different types of cables, what they’re used for, and when they might be used over others. Furthermore, we’ll keep it simple (so don’t worry if you’re not an expert!).

RCA

RCA, or phono, cables are the bread and butter of hi-fi cables. These cables connect to the red and white inputs or outputs found on most amplifiers, turntables and CD players. The red and white connectors carry the right and left audio signals, respectively, and both need connecting for a full stereo signal. RCA cables can also carry video signals, most commonly seen on older video and DVD players before the widespread implementation of HDMI.

Budget RCA cables will work well in most situations; however, more premium cables are recommended for longer lengths, with improved connectors and shielding to preserve the signal.

QED Performance Audio 40i RCA to RCA Interconnect Cable

Jack and mini-jack TRS

Jack cables are one of the most typical connector types, with several variations. Used for headphones and AUX inputs, the jack connector comes in two sizes โ€“ 6.35mm (1/4 inch) and 3.5mm (1/8 inch). Adapters can be purchased to change one size to the other, depending on the cable and input required. Jack to RCA cables is also available to connect to traditional audio equipment.

Most jack cables made for hi-fi audio are TRS (tip, ring, sleeve), referring to the three parts of the connector, each separated by a black plastic or rubber ring. The TRS jack can carry stereo audio signals, as opposed to the mono TS cable, which is usually used for guitar and instrument signals.

AudioQuest Tower 3.5mm Male to 6.35mm Female Stereo Audio Cable

S/PDIF Optical and Coaxial

S/PDIF stands for Sony/Phillips Digital Interface. There are two types of S/PDIF โ€“ Optical and RCA coaxial. These cables are commonly used in A/V systems, TVs, game consoles, and set-top boxes, carrying digital signals. These days it’s rare to find devices that still use S/PDIF cables for video since HDMI has become so popular. However, S/PDIF cables are still preferred when used for just audio (with no video input). This is because it is easier to set up and configure. Both optical and coaxial cables must be connected to a DAC (digital to analogue converter). This is often built into the amplifier, though stand-alone DACs often produce a better sound.

Audio Cables Blog Optical Coaxial

XLR

Now we come to one of the most notorious audio cables. The XLR cable is a great fit to achieve crisp sound and a reliable signal from devices like microphones, speakers, PA systems and instruments to stage speakers and mixers. XLR connections are the most favoured connection on high-end pre-amps and power amps due to the balanced nature of the signal.

Thanks to the cable’s additional conductor wire, the XLR cable can be as long as needed. Whether it’s 5 metres or 50, XLR cables will retain great sound quality. These cables are also made extremely durable and often come with a locking mechanism so they can’t fall loose or get tugged out.

Audio Cables Blog XLR

Speaker Cable & Plugs

Speaker cables are specifically designed to connect speakers to amplifiers. They are usually bare, so you need to use wire strippers to expose the strands at the end. Speaker cables come in various shapes and sizes, with some having more shielding and insulation to prevent noise in the audio signal. These cables are heavily budget-dependent, but even entry-level speaker cables will produce a great sound.

Using a connector called a banana plug, you can reduce the clutter of wires around your setup caused by the speaker cable’s open copper wiring. Banana plugs will also give you a more permanent high-quality connection and prevent exposed copper from oxidising too quickly.

QED Connect Speaker CableChord Leyline X Biwire Speaker Cable

USB

You have likely used or heard of a USB cable. They have fast become the most popular cable. This is due to their flexible functionality and presence in a huge percentage of modern devices. USB cables are capable of providing power as well as audio data. It can also act in place of MIDI and other cables, which makes them a great choice when connecting to audio interfaces where you would have otherwise required a MIDI cable for a complete connection.

Now with different variants like USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and Micro USBs, some of the older cables are being replaced by USBs. However, there are still a lot of older instruments and devices that are not compatible with USB. Alongside this, USB cables can also be more prone to damage since they are often made less sturdy than their counterparts.

QED Connect USB A to B Cable

Get In Touch

With your new-found knowledge, why not check out our range of audio cables, connectors and accessories? If you have any questions, issues or concerns, please call our sales team on 02476 631 707. Our experts are always happy to help.

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