In both analogue and digital audio, cables are needed to connect Hi-Fi equipment and power it. So that all the signals transmitted by these cables are intact and can offer you optimum listening quality, they must not be neglected! In this guide, maPlatine.com gives you some advice on how to look after your Hi-Fi cables.
1. High-fidelity cables
When you decide to set up a listening system, it's important to think about the choice of cables. Cables have a major role to play, which is why it can be worth investing in audio cables. Made with precious materials (gold, silver, copper, etc.) and meticulous attention to detail, they bridge the gap between your various Hi-Fi devices (turntable, phono preamplifier, amplifier, Hi-Fi speakers, etc.).
There are different types of Hi-Fi cables: phono cables, modulation cables, loudspeaker cables, etc. Although their respective roles are different, they do have some things in common: they have plugs to connect them, and they are made up of a body protected by a sheath.
If you'd like to find out more about the different types of Hi-Fi cable available and their role, don't hesitate to read our dedicated buying guide.
2. A few tips for looking after your audio cables
In hi-fi, taking care of your hi-fi equipment not only ensures that it lasts as long as possible, but also that it delivers the best possible sound reproduction. Audio cables do not necessarily need to be maintained in the strict sense of the word, but rather care should be taken when installing and handling them.
2.1. Taking care of the cable body and sheath
All cables have their conductors protected by a sheath. Depending on the material used, this can affect the flexibility of the cable and/or its robustness. Some sheaths are also used to insulate the central part of the cable (electromagnetic shielding) for better audio performance.
Let's imagine that the cable is a pipe that lets water flow through it. If you press on it, the flow will change. This image applies to audio cables. If you want to optimise your sound, you must not let any object put pressure on the cable. For example, in the case of digital cables (110 Ohms for AES/EBU and 75 Ohms for coaxial cables), a twist or pinch is likely to result in a change in impedance and therefore a less stable audio signal (jitter). As a result, the quality of the reproduction will suffer!
The same applies to modulation cables, for example. A twist or bend can change the impedance, but it can also crush the shielding and screen of the cable. This will cause more noise when listening. Similarly, when transporting your cables, it is advisable to wrap them tightly, without any twisting, to avoid damaging the conductors.
Not to mention the fact that, in any case, any mechanical stress on an audio cable can break a conductor or damage a solder joint (cold or traditional)... Hence the importance of taking these precautions when it comes to Hi-Fi cables!
2.2. Taking care of the cable ends
Cables are made up of two ends which are connected to a particular Hi-Fi device as required. These ends are called plugs.
The first precaution to take is when connecting or disconnecting Hi-Fi cables. When plugging in, first identify the system of the audio device: unscrew the input or output before inserting the cable, or screw/unscrew the cable itself before inserting it. When removing a cable, always place your fingers on the plug and not on the body of the cable, as this could stretch it in the wrong places.
In terms of maintenance, you should be aware that cable plugs can oxidise over time. Nothing to worry about, we simply recommend removing the oxidation with a cotton bud soaked in methylated spirits.
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We hope this short guide has given you some tips on how to look after your Hi-Fi cables. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need any further information. Our technicians will be happy to help.
