Audioquest Thunderbird XLR Interconnect Cable

The Audioquest ThunderBird XLR is packed with advanced technical features designed by the American manufacturer. Found in the "Mythical Creature" series, these technologies reduce distortion and effectively dissipate radio frequency noise and electromagnetic interference, all while delivering music with maximum naturalness and precision.

Audioquest ThunderBird XLR: Conductors

The Thunderbird uses solid-core Perfect-Surface Copper conductors. These solid conductors prevent strand interaction, a major source of dynamic distortion in cables. Made from AudioQuest's finest copper—PSC+ (Perfect Surface Copper+)—they are protected from RF noise by alternating layers of graphene (carbon/metal).

Positive conductors exhibit virtually no contact between the metal and its PP (polypropylene) insulation, limiting the cable's memory effect. AudioQuest uses polypropylene air-tube insulation. Since air absorbs almost no energy and polypropylene features low loss and a benign distortion profile, the high air content of polypropylene air-tube insulation creates far less memory effect than other insulating materials.

Audioquest ThunderBird XLR: Technology

The Audioquest ThunderBird XLR comes equipped with a DBS pack providing a high 72V bias voltage to the shield.

All conductors benefit from ZERO-Tech technology, which eliminates the electrostatic field between positive and negative conductors for linear noise dissipation. This Level 6 Noise Dissipation integrates a carbon/graphene resistive mesh network, direction-controlled conductors, and silver-plated drain wires, significantly minimizing RF noise masking effects.

Conductors are insulated with FEP air-tubes. Positive conductors enjoy virtually zero contact between the metal and FEP insulation, while negative conductors benefit from "controlled-loss insulation."

Direction-controlled 6% silver-plated RF drain wires ensure even more effective RF noise dissipation for a clearer, more natural sound.

Audioquest ThunderBird XLR: Connectors

The Audioquest ThunderBird XLR features beautiful XLR plugs crafted from silver-plated red copper.

AudioQuest's finest plugs are made with hanging silver (unpolished) plating applied directly over extremely pure red copper to guarantee uncompromised signal transfer.

Audioquest ThunderBird XLR: Sound Performance

The ThunderBird XLR is the entry model into AudioQuest's flagship Mythical Creature line, which features three models: ThunderBird, FireBird, and the ultra-high-end Dragon.

The ThunderBird boasts the same exceptional build quality as its counterparts and incorporates much of AudioQuest's sophisticated noise reduction technology at a more accessible price point.

From the first minutes of listening, you are won over by unwavering neutrality across the entire audio spectrum. It feels as though the source is connected directly to the speakers! Dynamics are remarkable, especially in the low end, combining crisp articulation with powerful, surprisingly extended bass. Midrange performance reflects the American manufacturer's finest achievements, delivering rich harmonics and outstanding vocal clarity. Every subtle detail of the recording is fully revealed.

The tonal balance of the ThunderBird XLR cable is straightforward, honest, and direct.

Far from a simple entry-level model, it represents the quintessence of the brand and stands out as one of the best value-for-money choices among AudioQuest's high-end XLR interconnect cables.

Bravo! Highly recommended.