With the Thunderbird XTRM XLR, AudioQuest applies its XTRM series to a fully balanced link. This XLR interconnect cable brings together the American manufacturer's most recent developments, all intended to reduce distortion and efficiently drain radio-frequency noise and electromagnetic interference.
AudioQuest Thunderbird XTRM XLR: three solid conductors
The balanced construction is based on three solid perfect-surface copper conductors in PSC+ (Perfect-Surface Copper+), each of 0.52 mm². The solid geometry removes strand interaction, a major source of dynamic distortion. Alternating layers of graphene (carbon/metal) then shield those conductors from RF noise.
Insulation uses polypropylene air tubes. Contact between the metal of the positive conductor and the PP is almost non-existent, which limits the cable's memory effect. Because air absorbs virtually no energy, and polypropylene is low-loss with a benign distortion profile, this high-air-content insulation proves far more neutral than solid materials.
AudioQuest Thunderbird XTRM XLR: dual DBS and Zero-Tech
Two DBS packs bias the shield at 72 V each, giving two times 72 V to cover the balanced architecture. The ZERO-Tech principle is also applied to every conductor: by eliminating the electrostatic field between positive and negative conductors, it allows linear noise dissipation. 6 % silver-plated RF drain wires with controlled direction complete the arrangement.
AudioQuest Thunderbird XTRM XLR: connectors
The XLR plugs are silver-plated red copper. As on its finest connectors, AudioQuest lays suspended, unpolished silver directly onto extremely pure red copper, so that nothing is conceded on signal transfer.
AudioQuest Thunderbird XTRM XLR: which system?
AudioQuest is among the most honest manufacturers in this segment: its cables do not correct the shortcomings of an incoherent system. The Thunderbird XTRM XLR is therefore aimed at an already balanced installation fitted with balanced connections, as our guide on building a complete Hi-Fi system explains.
FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the AudioQuest Thunderbird XTRM XLR interconnect cable
How does the construction differ from an unbalanced link?
The XLR version uses three 0.52 mm² Solid Core conductors and two DBS packs, where an unbalanced link uses two conductors and a single pack. That is the expected construction for balanced transmission between units that support it, in particular ahead of an integrated amplifier fitted with XLR inputs.
What is the point of Graphene-Based dissipation?
The alternating layers of graphene (carbon/metal) around the conductors absorb RF energy early, before it reaches ground. Combined with ZERO-Tech and the silver-plated drain wires, the approach targets a very low noise floor. Our guide to the different types of Hi-Fi cables puts these technologies in context.
Do the connectors need any maintenance?
The silver-plated red copper XLR plugs require no particular maintenance. It remains worth keeping the contacts on your equipment clean: our Hi-Fi accessories section offers suitable products.
Can I trade in an older AudioQuest cable?
Yes. By returning an older cable from the brand you receive a discount on the purchase of a new model. Full terms are set out on our AudioQuest cable trade-in page.
FranckType: balanced analogue interconnect cable
Conductors: Solid Core
Cross-section: 3 x 0.52 mm²
Copper: PSC+ (Perfect-Surface Copper+)
Insulation: polypropylene Air-Tubes
Noise dissipation: Graphene-Based (carbon/metal)
RF dissipation: Zero-Tech
RF drain wires: 6 % silver-plated, controlled direction
Bias: 2 x DBS 72 V
Connectors: silver-plated red copper XLR
