Audio Cables
There are many audio cables for different uses. Depending on your setup and environment, the right audio cable will make all the difference. Some devices only support analog or digital cables while others might need a more specialized cable.
Let’s take a look at the basics and what cable best suits your need.
To Be Balanced or Unbalanced
Balanced cables contain a pair of conductor wires and a ground, which allows it to avoid external electrical interference. An unbalanced cable only features a single conductor wire and can’t cancel out any external electrical noise which may interfere or affect the signal transmitted. Most consumer cables sold for home use are unbalanced as the environment doesn’t have much or if any interference. Balanced cables are designed for audio creation or any professional setting allowing for uninterrupted clarity.
Audio Cable Types
TS Cables are Tip/Sleeve cables and are compatible with mono(one-channel) audio sources like guitars, other unbalanced instruments, effects pedals, and drum machines to amplifiers, mixers, and audio interfaces. Most are 1/4-inch in size but Monoprice’s assortment also includes 1/8-inch (3.5mm).
TRS cables are Tip/Ring/Sleeve cables that have two rubber stripes on the connector head. Although it may look similar to a TS cable, there are some differences. TRS cables are usually used for mixers, audio interfaces, studio monitors, specialty instruments, and in headphones and headphone output. With both TRS and TS cables, there are plenty of methods of converting between the connector types and others – from TRS to TS cables to 3.5mm to 1/4 adapters.
XLR cables are x-connector locking connector rubber boot cables that are the most iconic of all audio cables with their classic Type O connector. They are always balanced and used for professional audio gear, microphones, PA systems, and DMX lights. All XLR cables are balanced and extremely durable. Monoprice’s assortment also includes XLR converter cables to suit your needs.
These cables are designed for professional speakers and amplifiers. Typically unbalanced but are still very popular due to their locking capability.
Similar to TS cables, speaker cables are designed for speakers and amplifiers. Home audio enthusiasts love these as they are highly customizable from connecting to your own banana plug to wall plate for a cleaner and sleeker look.
MIDI cables were used to send messages and other signals and have been superseded with USB, but are still extremely popular with the AV community. MIDI cables have a five-pin connector and can be used interchangeably for MIDI Through, MIDI In, and MIDI Out. Monoprice’s MIDI cables offer all three of MIDI port options.
S/PDIF, or Sony/Philips Digital Interface, is commonly used in mainstream consumer audio/video systems, including set-top boxes, game consoles, and televisions. This interface is available in two types: optical, also known as Toslink, and coaxial, which uses RCA connectors.
WHY CHOOSE MONOPRICE AUDIO CABLES
Balanced cables contain a pair of conductor wires and a ground, which allows it to avoid external electrical interference. An unbalanced cable only features a single conductor wire and can’t cancel out any external electrical noise which may interfere or affect the signal transmitted. Most consumer cables sold for home use are unbalanced as the environment doesn’t have much or if any interference. Balanced cables are designed for audio creation or any professional setting allowing for uninterrupted clarity.
Affordable
Durable goods at a price well below other brands on the market. We achieve our low prices by selling direct to the consumer and removing the middle man.
Quality
At Monoprice, we pride ourselves on coupling quality with value. By rigorously developing and stringently testing all of our products, we ensure that we provide the best possible value to our customers. Our commitment to excellence is backed by our lifetime warranty.
Support
Our team is available to answer your questions before and after the sale. For inquiries about our products, troubleshooting assistance, or suggestions to meet your specific needs, contact our technical support team. Contact us at [email protected].